Thorny Elaeagnus Elaeagnus pungens

Thorny olive is an invasive tough rapidly growing vine-like shrub native to Asia in the oleaster (Elaeagnaceae) family. It is resistant to drought, salt spray, pollution, and damage by deer.  It has long shoots that trail out in many directions and can develop an unkempt appearance if not maintained.   Showy white fragrant flowers are followed by showy red fruits that attract birds.  Young branchlets are covered by brown scales and the stems have thorns that can "hook" onto other plants and structures to climb up. 

The genus name Elaeagnus comes from the Greek words elaia meaning "olive tree" and agnos meaning "chaste" or "pure"

It tolerates a range of soil types including poor and infertile and is highly salt tolerant. It tolerates shade but will have thinner foliage. The plant can be pruned, but keep in mind that next year's blossoms will appear on old growth.

Be wary as it is listed on the Non-Native Invasive Plants of Southern Forests and the Invasive Plant Atlas of the MidSouth. It can produce dense thickets, displacing native species and disrupting wildlife.  Animals and birds help to disperse seeds.

Please consider planting native plants. See the side panel for suggestions.

Quick ID Hints:

• Vine-like shrub with brown scaley thorns
• Leaves covered with silvery scales below
• Petiole and major veins covered with brown scales
• Flowers silvery-white and fragrant 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems though fungal leaf spot and rust may occur and spider mites can attack stressed plants. Although technically a shrub, Elaeagnus pungens is capable of climbing and can attach to overhead trees if branches are not maintained. The trunk tends to sucker and this plant will also spread by seed.  It is listed as invasive by the NC Invasive Plant Council.