Bastard Oleaster
Elaeagnus latifolia
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Pl. FFE5 — Elaeagnus latifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Bastard Oleaster (Elaeagnus latifolia) is a deciduous shrub native to the south-central and southeast regions of China, Vietnam, and parts of India and Myanmar. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental value, this plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It grows well in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils and is hardy in zones 8-11. One distinctive feature of the bastard oleaster is its silver-gray foliage, which adds a unique visual appeal to gardens. The plant produces edible fruit and seeds, making it a valuable addition to landscapes where its light requirements and soil adaptability make it versatile for various garden settings.
Quick answers
What is Bastard Oleaster?
Bastard Oleaster (Elaeagnus latifolia) is a deciduous shrub native to the south-central and southeast regions of China, Vietnam, and parts of India and Myanmar. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental value, this plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Bastard Oleaster thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This plant is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows to a height of about 3 meters. For propagation, fruits and seeds are edible parts that can be used.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Bastard Oleaster for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance tree that will thrive in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Bastard Oleaster saplings, well-draining soil, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with light: full sun; ensure the soil is well-draining, not too heavy.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the garden or in large containers with good drainage holes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when dry, prune lightly for shape, and mulch around the base.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape; harvest fruit if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The bastard oleaster's fruit and seeds are edible. The fruits can be eaten raw or used in various preparations, while the seeds may be roasted or ground into flour for baking. Both parts add a unique flavor to dishes but require careful handling due to their small size.
Other uses:Fire starterNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 11 native
Asia8 regions
native (8)BangladeshChinaIndiaMyanmarNepalSri LankaThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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