Goumi
Elaeagnus multiflora ovata
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Pl. 7475 — Elaeagnus multiflora ovata
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IOverview
Overview
Goumi, scientifically known as Elaeagnus multiflora ovata, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It prefers dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 5-9. Goumi is valued for its edible fruit and seed, which are used in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this plant is its silver-gray foliage, which adds an attractive contrast to the landscape. Another notable characteristic is its fragrant white flowers that appear in early spring, followed by small, yellowish fruits that ripen in late summer.
Quick answers
What is Goumi?
Goumi, scientifically known as Elaeagnus multiflora ovata, is a deciduous shrub native to Japan. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It prefers dry to moist conditions and is hardy in zones 5-9.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Goumi thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will produce better fruit with regular moisture. Hardy from zones 5-9, this plant grows up to 3 meters tall. Propagate via seed or by dividing the roots in early spring. The fruits and seeds are edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Goumi for the first time
8steps
Start with Goumi as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Goumi plants or seeds, gardening gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Ensure soil is well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in early spring, or sow seeds directly where you want them to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly until established. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when dry and mulch around the base for moisture retention. Prune in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage fruiting and remove dead branches. Harvest fruits after they turn golden yellow.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting winter protection in colder zones.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The goumi fruit can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. The seeds are also edible but are typically roasted before consumption. Both parts are often dried for later use. Skip processing methods like cooking that alter the texture significantly.
Other uses:HedgerowRootstockNitrogen fixerFragrance
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 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 74753105-0912-40a7-9866-80c98452bc4b
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