Ebbinge's Silverberry
Elaeagnus x ebbingei
Ebbingei
About this plant
Elaeagnus x ebbingei, commonly known as Ebbinge's Silverberry, is an evergreen shrub valued for its silvery-green leaves and fragrant, small yellow flowers that bloom in autumn. It is often used as a hedge or screen plant due to its dense growth and tolerance of various conditions. The plant also produces small red berries that attract birds. It is appreciated for its ability to improve soil by fixing nitrogen.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Elaeagnus
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Higher classification
- Rosales
- Plant type
- Shrub
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Hybrid of Elaeagnus macrophylla and Elaeagnus pungens, originally from East Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide, especially in gardens and parks across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 7-10
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam, sandy or clay soils
Watering. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, it tolerates dry conditions but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells.
Fertilizing. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. It generally does not require heavy feeding due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.
Elaeagnus x ebbingei is a tough and adaptable shrub that grows quickly with minimal care. It tolerates a wide range of soil types and light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and rarely suffers from pests or diseases. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and encourages dense growth.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Layering
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- autumn
Silvery-green leaves with a dense, bushy form; small fragrant yellow flowers in autumn; red berries attractive to birds.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for gardens frequented by children and animals.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Moderate
Elaeagnus x ebbingei produces some pollen that can cause mild allergic reactions in sensitive people, especially during its flowering season. Those with pollen allergies should be cautious and consider planting it away from frequently used outdoor areas to reduce exposure.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot, and poor drainage may cause yellowing leaves. Occasionally, scale insects or aphids may appear but are usually easy to control.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental hedge or screen plant. Its dense foliage provides privacy and wind protection. Also valued for soil improvement and attracting wildlife.
Notes
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth. It can tolerate coastal conditions and poor soils but avoid waterlogged areas. Repotting is rarely needed as it is typically grown outdoors.