Elaeagnus fragrans
Elaeagnus fragransfam. Rosaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. 201F — Elaeagnus fragrans
Elaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragransElaeagnus fragrans
IOverview
Overview
Elaeagnus fragrans, commonly known as Japanese silverberry, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible fruit and seeds, the plant reaches a height of 3 meters. One distinctive feature is its silvery, scaly leaves, which give it an attractive appearance. Another notable characteristic is its fragrant white flowers that bloom in spring, adding to its ornamental value.
Quick answers
What is Elaeagnus fragrans?
Elaeagnus fragrans, commonly known as Japanese silverberry, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Elaeagnus fragrans thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is adaptable to both dry and moist conditions but requires consistent moisture during fruiting. This plant grows up to 3 meters tall and produces edible fruits and seeds. For cultivation, ensure the soil is not overly wet, as it may lead to root rot. Given its native range in Japan, Elaeagnus fragrans is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate through seed or cuttings for successful growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Elaeagnus fragrans for the first time
8steps
Start with Elaeagnus fragrans as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Elaeagnus fragrans plant and some basic gardening tools like a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining, with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soils. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for shrubs.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden or in a container. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water thoroughly after planting, then reduce watering to once a week unless it's very dry.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure but ensure the soil stays moist. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too heavy of a soil mix, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The fruit of Elaeagnus fragrans is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Seeds from this plant are also utilized, often dried before consumption. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh but may also be incorporated into jams or other preserves.
Other uses:HedgerowNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Japan
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 (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 201fe4c0-d943-421b-87e5-0538f36cd63e
Decision aid
Choosing between Elaeagnus fragrans and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.