Elaeagnus thunbergii
Elaeagnus thunbergiifam. Roseaceae
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Pl. 8C06 — Elaeagnus thunbergii
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IOverview
Overview
Elaeagnus thunbergii, commonly known as Thunberg's olive, is a deciduous shrub native to Taiwan. 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 grows up to 3 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit and seeds, Thunberg's olive is both ornamental and useful as a food source. One distinctive feature of this plant is the silvery-gray scales on its leaves, which give it a unique appearance.
Quick answers
What is Elaeagnus thunbergii?
Elaeagnus thunbergii, commonly known as Thunberg's olive, is a deciduous shrub native to Taiwan. 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 grows up to 3 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Elaeagnus thunbergii thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-drained soil that is light, medium, or heavy. It can tolerate dry conditions but performs best in moist soil. The plant grows up to 3 meters tall and produces edible fruit and seeds. While hardiness isn't specified, it is native to Taiwan and likely adaptable to temperate regions. For propagation, use cuttings or seed sowing.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Elaeagnus thunbergii for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and low-maintenance approach to growing Skip.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Skip plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden spot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. For containers, use a potting mix suitable for roses.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Skip plants from a nursery into your garden or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plant regularly to help it establish roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Skip prefers full sun to partial shade, so place in a location with adequate light. Water when dry and prune lightly to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Skip in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The fruit and seeds of Elaeagnus thunbergii are edible. The fruits can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Seeds may also be consumed but require processing before eating.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
1 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
1 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 1 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Taiwan
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
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