Introduction
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the family Elaeagnaceae and is commonly known as cherry elaeagnus or goumi berry.
Origin
The plant is native to China, Korea, and Japan, but is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is grown for its edible fruit.
Common Names
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is known by several common names in different parts of the world. In addition to cherry elaeagnus and goumi berry, it is also referred to as sweetberry, silverthorn, and cherry silverberry.
Uses
The fruit of Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is edible, with a tart and tangy flavor. The fruit is high in vitamin C and antioxidants. It is used in jams, jellies, and juices, and can also be eaten fresh. The fruit can ripen as early as May or as late as September, depending on the location and climate.
In addition to its culinary uses, the plant has also been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed to have diuretic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and is used to treat various ailments, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and liver disease.
General Appearance
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet and has a spread of 6 to 8 feet. It has a dense, rounded shape and small, fragrant flowers that bloom in the spring. The leaves are green and glossy on top, with a silvery gray underside. The fruit is a small, red, cherry-like berry that grows in clusters.
Growth Conditions for Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb.
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb., commonly known as Goumi, is a deciduous shrub native to China, Japan, and Korea. It is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in a wide range of growth conditions.
Light Requirements:
Goumi plants are versatile when it comes to light requirements, and they can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, the ideal conditions for these plants are areas with full sun exposure of at least 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements:
Goumi plants are cold hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures of up to -20°C. They also tolerate high summer temperatures of up to 32°C. A suitable temperature range for the plant's optimal growth is between 10-30°C.
Soil Requirements:
Goumi plants prefer moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant is not particular about soil types and can thrive in different soils, including loams, sandy, and clay soils. However, it is worth noting that heavy clay soils with poor drainage can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Water Requirements:
Goumi plants require regular watering during their first year of growth to establish a healthy root system. Once established, the plant can tolerate moderate drought. However, regular watering during long dry spells is recommended for optimum growth and productivity.
Fertilizer Requirements:
Goumi plants do not need much fertilizer to grow. A balanced organic fertilizer applied in early spring can suffice for the plant's growth. Overuse of fertilizer can result in excessive vegetative growth, reducing the plant's fruit production.
Cultivation methods
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is a hardy plant and is easy to cultivate. It can adapt to different types of soil but prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. It is also adaptable to different weather conditions and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
If propagating from seeds, it is best to sow the seeds in fall or spring. The seeds should be placed about 2-3 centimeters deep in the soil. If propagating from cuttings, it is best to collect the cuttings in the summer and plant them in moist soil. Mulching around the base of the plant can help keep the roots moist and prevent weed growth.
Watering needs
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. requires regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. When watering the plant, it is important to water the soil directly and not the leaves. The plant can tolerate some drought conditions once it has established its root system.
Fertilization
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is not a heavy feeder but can benefit from fertilization annually. A balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer can be applied in early spring before new growth begins. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the base of the plant and watered in well. Organic fertilizers such as compost and well-rotted manure can also be used as an alternative.
Pruning
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. responds well to pruning and can be shaped to the desired size and shape. It is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Dead or diseased branches should be removed, and any branches growing inward or crossing should be pruned. Long branches can be cut back by up to a third of their length to promote new growth. Regular pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and improve its overall health.
Propagation of Elaeagnus Multiflora Thunb
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. can be propagated by various methods. It is important to select a healthy mother plant for propagation.
Seed Propagation
The traditional way of propagating Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is by seed. The fresh seeds are collected in Autumn, and they should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed. It is important to keep the seedbed moist, but not waterlogged, to ensure good germination. The seeds will generally germinate within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be potted up into individual containers. It is important to remember that seed-grown plants may not be true to type.
Cuttings
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. can also be propagated by hardwood cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in early winter. Cuttings should be taken from the current year’s growth, and they should be around 30 cm long. The cuttings should then be trimmed at the base and dipped in rooting hormone. They can be planted outside, but it is best to plant them in a protected spot or in a cold frame. Covering the cuttings with a plastic bag can help to maintain humidity.
Air Layering
Another method of propagating Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. is by air layering. This involves wounding a branch near the base of a leaf and applying rooting hormone to the wound. The wound is then wrapped in sphagnum moss and held in place with plastic wrap. After several months, roots should have formed on the branch. The new plant can then be cut from the mother plant and potted up.
Grafting
Elaeagnus multiflora Thunb. can also be propagated by grafting onto a rootstock. This method is generally used for cultivars as it allows for a true-to-type plant to be produced. Grafting involves taking a cutting of the desired cultivar and attaching it to the stem of a seedling of another Elaeagnus species. The two plants are then bound together until they have grown together. Once the graft has healed, the new plant can be potted up.
Disease Management
Elaeagnus multiflora is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This disease appears as small, circular, brown spots with yellow halos on leaves and fruits. To manage, prune and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
- Leaf spot: It appears as gray or brownish spots on leaves. To manage, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
- Root rot: Roots of affected plants exhibit brown discoloration and decay. To manage, avoid overwatering, provide good drainage, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Several pests can attack Elaeagnus multiflora, including:
- Spider mites: They suck plant sap, causing yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage, spray plants with water, remove infected parts, and apply insecticides.
- Scale insects: They are visible as small bumps on leaves and stems. They suck plant sap, leading to leaf drop and stunted growth. To manage, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply insecticides.
- Fruit fly: The larvae feed on the fruit, causing poor quality and yield. To manage, use insect-proof netting, harvest fruits when ripe, and use protein bait sprays.
Proper cultural practices, such as pruning, mulching, and fertilization, can also help prevent diseases and pests. Early detection and appropriate management strategies are crucial in maintaining healthy and productive Elaeagnus multiflora plants.
