Russian olive
Elaeagnus angustifoliafam. Roseaceae
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Pl. 9FBA — Elaeagnus angustifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) is a deciduous tree or shrub native to the Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Islands, Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Philippines, and Taiwan. This plant thrives in various habitats across these regions, including dry and moist conditions with light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Known for its edible fruit and seed, Russian olive can grow up to 7 meters tall. Its distinctive features include silver-gray foliage and small, fragrant flowers that precede the production of fruits. The plant's adaptability makes it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes in hardiness zones 2-7.
Quick answers
What is Russian olive?
Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia) is a deciduous tree or shrub native to the Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Islands, Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Philippines, and Taiwan.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Russian olive is a perennial tree or shrub that thrives in temperate regions with moderate to high humidity. It prefers light conditions, with an energy rating of 8/10. The plant can tolerate dry and moist environments but requires well-draining soil, including sandy, medium, and clay types. Russian olive grows up to 7 meters tall and is hardy in zones ranging from 2 to 7. Edible parts include the fruit and seeds. It can be propagated using its seeds or by layering stems. The plant's optimal soil pH ranges from 6 to 9.5, making it suitable for a variety of soil types.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
7.0 m tall
Soil pH
6–9.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Russian olive for the first time
8steps
Start with planting a Russian olive tree in your garden for a low-maintenance, hardy addition.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Russian olive sapling and some gardening gloves.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with soil that's light, medium, or heavy. Ensure the pH is between 6 and 9.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully, making sure to keep the root ball intact.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots. Avoid overwatering, as Russian olives prefer dry conditions.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when it turns golden brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, using too much fertilizer, planting in poorly drained soil, neglecting winter protection.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:CompanionEssential OilAnimal feedFire starterGumHedgerowLumberNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe1 region
native (1)Russia
Asia9 regions
native (9)AfghanistanChinaIndiaIranMongoliaMyanmarPakistanPhilippinesTaiwan
Broader regions
native:Borneo, Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, New Guinea, Queensland, Solomon Is., Sulawesi, Sumatera, Altay, East Aegean Is., Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Bismarck Archipelago
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Roseaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Roseaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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