Goumi
Elaeagnus multiflora
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Pl. 6E7E — Elaeagnus multiflora
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IOverview
Overview
The Goumi is a perennial shrub belonging to the Elaeagnaceae family. Native to China's North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, as well as Japan, Korea, and the Kuril Islands, this plant has been widely cultivated in its native range. The Goumi is known for its edible fruit and seeds, which are a food source for various animals. A distinctive feature of the Goumi is its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, from light sandy soils to heavy clay, making it adaptable to different environments. Its robust growth habit allows it to reach heights of up to 3 meters, with a spread of approximately 1 meter.
Quick answers
What is Goumi?
The Goumi is a perennial shrub belonging to the Elaeagnaceae family. Native to China's North-Central, South-Central, and Southeast regions, as well as Japan, Korea, and the Kuril Islands, this plant has been widely cultivated in its native range.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Goumi is a perennial shrub that thrives in temperate regions with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It prefers dry to moist conditions, tolerating light sandy soils as well as heavier clay types. Goumi grows to 3 meters tall and 1 meter wide, making it suitable for hedges or borders. The plant is hardy in zones 5-9, indicating its adaptability to various climates within this range. To propagate goumi, seeds can be sown directly into the ground after harvesting, providing a natural means of spreading the plant. Edible parts include fruit and seed, which can be used by gardeners with proper knowledge of their consumption.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m × 1 m
For first-time growers
How to grow Goumi for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance shrub that thrives in various conditions.
- 1
What you'll need
Goumi plants or seeds, garden gloves, spade, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Goumi in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and cool.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light to partial shade. Amend soil with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Goumi plants from the nursery, or sow seeds in early spring after last frost.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly until established. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light to partial sun and regular watering during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Goumi in late winter before new growth starts to maintain shape and size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The fruit and seeds of the Goumi plant are edible. They can be consumed raw or dried for later use. The seeds may also be roasted. There is no specific information on how the fruit is typically prepared, but it's likely to be eaten fresh or used in traditional dishes. No further preparation methods are documented.
Other uses:CompanionHedgerowRootstockNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 18 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 18 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 6 native· 18 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
introduced (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Kuril Is.
introduced:Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode I., Tadzhikistan, Tennessee, Virginia, Alabama, Masachusettes, Connecticut, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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