Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata' – Variegated Silverberry, Fragrant and Durable

Variegated Silverberry (Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata')

Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata' (el-ee-AG-nus PUN-jenz) is an evergreen shrub that lights up dark garden corners. It grows quickly with arched, somewhat spiny branches. Bright yellow, 3- to 4-inch-long leaves are outlined in green. Twigs are metallic copper, and leaf undersides are speckled copper. Tiny white flowers appear under leaves in fall—hard to see but very fragrant. Small orange fruit appear in spring. Synonym: Elaeagnus pungens 'Aureovariegata'.

—Michael Lee, Fine Gardening issue #119

Noteworthy Characteristics

• Great fragrance, spring fruit
• Extremely durable plant

Growing Conditions & Care

Grow in full sun to full shade in any soil. Once established, it won't need supplemental water.

Propagation

From hardwood or softwood cuttings; from seed.

Potential Problems

Dieback, rust, root rot, cankers, dagger nematode, fungal leaf spots.

Quick Reference

• Height/Spread: 10–15 ft.
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Moisture: Dry to medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Fall
• Flower Color: White
• Foliage Color: Evergreen, Variegated
• Uses: Cut flower, hedge, screening, low-maintenance, slopes, waterside
• Type: Shrub
• Special: Deer tolerant, drought tolerant