Plant Description
Elaeagnus oldhamii, commonly known as Oldham's Silverberry, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. The plant can grow up to 6 meters tall, with a spread of 5 meters. It has a dense, rounded, and bushy form with arching branches, which makes it an excellent choice for a hedge or screen. Its leaves are a glossy green on top and silvery-grey on the underside, measuring 4 to 10 cm in length and 2 to 4 cm in width. The shrub's small, fragrant, and creamy-white flowers bloom in the fall and winter, and its edible fruit ripens in the spring, resembling small red berries.
Origin
Elaeagnus oldhamii is native to China and Korea, where it grows along the coastlines of these countries. It was introduced into the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental plant and has since become naturalized in various parts of the country, including California, Hawaii, and Florida.
Common Names
Aside from Oldham's Silverberry, Elaeagnus oldhamii is also known by other common names such as Japanese Silverberry, Wild Olive, and Oleaster.
Uses
Elaeagnus oldhamii has several uses, and its fruits are the most valued part of the shrub. The edible berries are sweet and tart and can be eaten fresh, dried, or made into jams and jellies. Its leaves and branches are also used for traditional medicine in China and Korea. Besides that, the shrub is highly valued as an ornamental plant, with its stunning foliage and fragrant flowers making it an attractive addition to any landscape.
Light Requirements
Elaeagnus oldhamii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but grows best under full sun conditions. Too much shade can result in sparse growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Elaeagnus oldhamii can tolerate a range of temperatures. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in temperatures as low as -10°F (-23°C) and as high as 110°F (43°C). In colder regions, it may lose leaves in the winter but will regrow in the spring. In warmer regions, it can be an evergreen plant.
Soil Requirements
Elaeagnus oldhamii prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.5). It can also tolerate sandy or loamy soil types. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil textures, but it must be well-draining to prevent waterlogged roots. It can tolerate light drought, but the soil must not dry out completely.
Cultivation
Elaeagnus oldhamii should be planted in well-draining soil that is enriched with organic matter to enhance nutrient availability. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is drought tolerant, making it suitable for dry landscapes. Avoid planting the shrub in areas with strong winds that may damage its branches.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering during the establishment period, after which it can tolerate moderate drought conditions. However, for optimal growth and health, it is recommended to water the shrub deeply at least every two weeks, especially during prolonged droughts. Water the plant at its base and avoid wetting its foliage, which can encourage fungal disease development.
Fertilization
Elaeagnus oldhamii benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced slow-release fertilizer to promote growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer during the spring when the plant starts producing new shoots. Avoid over-fertilization, which may lead to excessive growth and weak stems that are susceptible to breakage.
Pruning
The shrub requires minimal pruning, but occasional light trimming is necessary to shape its growth and maintain its size. Prune the plant after flowering in the fall, cut back any damaged or weak branches, and remove any dead or diseased wood. Avoid pruning more than a third of the plant's foliage, as this may weaken the plant.
Propagation of Elaeagnus Oldhamii
Elaeagnus oldhamii is a versatile plant that is propagated using different methods. These methods include:
Propagation through Cuttings
The easiest way to propagate Elaeagnus Oldhamii is through stem cuttings. This method is suitable for both hardwood and softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken in spring, while hardwood cuttings are taken in winter when the plant is dormant.
For hardwood cuttings, select a healthy stem and snip it into pieces 10-15cm (4-6inches) long, making sure to include a few leaf nodes. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cuttings in a prepared potting mix, water them and cover them with a clear plastic bag. Place them in a warm, bright location but away from direct sunlight.
For softwood cuttings, select a healthy young stem and snip it into pieces 10-15cm (4-6inches) long, including a few leaves. Prepare a rooting hormone powder, dip the stem cutting into the rooting powder and plant the cutting in a container filled with potting compost. Cover the cutting with a clear plastic bag to retain humidity and place it in a shaded place. Water the cutting frequently to keep the soil moist.
Propagation from Seeds
Propagation from seeds is another method of propagating Elaeagnus Oldhamii. However, the process is slow and requires patience and skill. The seeds are collected from ripe fruit, cleaned, rinsed, and sown in a prepared seedbed. The seeds should be watered frequently, kept in partial sunlight, and protected from harsh temperatures. The germination period is between 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent position in the garden after 2-3 years
Propagation by Suckers
Elaeagnus Oldhamii plants are known to produce suckers from their root system. Cut the suckers from the parent plant using a sharp knife or shears. Prepare a potting mix that is suitable for the plant, starting with planting soil, coarse sand, and peat moss. After cleaning the suckers, dip it into rooting hormone powder then plant it into the potting mix. Water the sucker well and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain humidity levels. Place the sucker in a shaded location and after 6-8 weeks, remove the sucker from the pot and transplant it into a permanent position.
In conclusion, Elaeagnus Oldhamii can be propagated from cuttings, seeds, and suckers from the root system. When propagated correctly, the plant grows vigorously and produces a healthy plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Elaeagnus Oldhamii Plants
Elaeagnus oldhamii is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that has a reputation for being resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can still suffer from several problems if not appropriately taken care of, including pests and diseases. Here's what you need to know about managing diseases and pests for Elaeagnus oldhamii plants.
Common Pests
Elaeagnus oldhamii is not immune to pest damage, but the frequency of pest problems is minimal. Here are some of the most common pests that can affect Elaeagnus oldhamii plants.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, sucking pests that can cause leaves to discolor and fall off. They thrive in hot, dry conditions and can often go unnoticed until it's too late. To manage spider mites, hose down the plant with water regularly to reduce their numbers. You can also spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control an infestation.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small and flat, with a waxy coating that protects them from pesticides. They feed on the leaves and stems of the Elaeagnus oldhamii plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage scale insects, prune off affected plant sections and dispose of them immediately. Use neem oil or an insecticidal soap to control the number of scale insects.
Caterpillars and Beetles
Caterpillars and beetles can cause severe damage to Elaeagnus oldhamii plants. They feed on the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn brown. To manage caterpillars and beetles, handpick them and dispose of them. Alternatively, use a natural pesticide or insecticidal soap to control their numbers.
Common Diseases
Elaeagnus oldhamii is susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that can affect this plant.
Crown Gall
Crown gall is a bacterial disease that causes galls or warts to develop on the plant's roots, trunk, and stems. The disease can reduce plant growth or kill the plant. To manage crown gall, dig up the infected plant and dispose of it. If the disease is detected in the soil, plant a different crop in the area and avoid planting Elaeagnus oldhamii in the same area for a few years.
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases are fungal infections that cause brown spots or patches to develop on the plant's leaves. The spots may merge, causing the leaves to wither and die prematurely. To manage leaf spot diseases, remove the infected leaves and dispose of them. Use a fungicidal spray to keep the disease from spreading.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to rot and leading to stunted growth and wilting. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering the plant excessively. Fungicidal sprays can also be used to control root rot.
In summary, managing diseases and pests in an Elaeagnus oldhamii plant is critical to ensure it grows well. Water the plant properly, prune off affected sections, use natural pesticides or insecticidal soap, and maintain healthy soil conditions to keep pests and diseases at bay.
