Elaeagnus pungens – Thorny Elaeagnus, Tough Evergreen for Hedges

Thorny Elaeagnus (Elaeagnus pungens)

Elaeagnus pungens (el-ee-AG-nus PUN-jenz) is a tough evergreen shrub with pendent flowers providing a delightful gardenia-like perfume during October and November. Brown fruit ripens to red in autumn. Handsome foliage is lustrous green above, dull and silvery dotted with brown below.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Not for the small garden; this aggressive grower is considered a weed by some, and is impervious to pests, pollution, and salt spray, making it ideal for hedges, screening, and bank plantings.

Growing Conditions & Care

Elaeagnus pungens thrives in sun or shade, and in all types of soil.

Potential Problems

Occurring frequently: cankers, dagger nematode, dieback, rust, fungal leaf spots, and root rot. Can be aggressively weedy.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 10–15 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Fall
• Flower Color: White
• Foliage Color: Evergreen
• Uses: Hedge, screening, trellis, woodland gardens
• Type: Shrub