Elaeagnus ebbingei

Elaeagnus ebbingei, known as Ebbinge’s elaeagnus or autumn olive, is a highly ornamental evergreen shrub native to Asia. It has a dense, rounded, and extensively branched structure, with woody branches and oval leaves that are dark green on the upper surface and noticeably silvery or grayish on the underside. Its foliage provides an attractive contrast of tones and maintains a decorative appearance year-round.

With moderate to rapid growth, it can reach approximately 2 to 4 meters in height, forming a compact crown that tolerates pruning very well. In autumn, it produces small, whitish, highly fragrant flowers, inconspicuous at first glance but with a rich aroma, which later develop into small reddish or silvery fruits. It is widely used as a hedge, screen, specimen plant, windbreak, and shrub for coastal or urban gardens, thanks to its hardiness and dense foliage.

It requires direct sun or partial shade, although bright light promotes more compact growth. It adapts to various soil types, even poor soils, provided they are well-drained. It exhibits excellent tolerance to wind, moderate drought, urban pollution, and salinity, making it particularly useful in coastal areas. Watering should be regular during establishment, then reduced, as it can withstand periods of drought once established. Prolonged waterlogging should be avoided. It tolerates pruning very well, which can be done after flowering or during spring to control its size and maintain a compact shape.