Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) el-ee-AG-nus um-bell-AY-tah Genus:  Elaeagnus Autumn olive is a vigorous, deciduous shrub with pale yellow-white bell-shaped flowers to a half-inch long borne in late spring and early summer. Its silvery fruit turns red in fall and attracts birds. Wavy-margined leaves are silvery when they emerge and mature to bright green above. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Invasive in the Mid-Atlantic region; spreads by birds eating the fruit and distributing the seeds. Care:  Grow in fertile soil in full sun. Propagation:  Semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer. Problems:  Occurring frequently: cankers, dagger nematode, dieback, rust, fungal leaf spots, and root rot.

Overview

Height 10 ft. to 15 ft. Spread 10 ft. to 15 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Self Seeds, Showy Fruit Bloom Time Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer Flower Color White, Yellow Uses Beds and Borders Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs