WSU Clark County Extension
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Maculata Thorny Elaeagnus

Scientific name: Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata'
Taxonomy
Family:Elaeagnaceae
Type:Evergreen shrubs
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:7 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Dry
Plant Characteristics
Height:15 ft
Width:15 ft
Bloom:Fragrant flowers
Bloom Time:October
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Often used extensively in highway plantings or where erosion control is needed, Maculata Thorny Elaeagnus can also be sheared into a hedge. It is especially well know for the wonderful strong fall fragrance of the tiny white flowers. Also known as Silverberry, or Silverthorn.

  Morphology:
This is large broadleaf evergreen shrub, which can grow to a height and width of 15’ if left un-pruned. It has a dense spreading habit, forming a symmetrical mound of foliage.

Leaves are arranged in an alternate arrangement, and are simple. Leaves are 2”-5” long with ruffled leaf margins. They have an ovate shape. They are lustrous dark green with a yellow, variable width stripe that runs down the center. The bottom side of the leaves are covered with clear spots that give the leaf a silver sheen, hence the name Silverberry.

Flowers are perfect (both male and female parts), silvery white, one-fourth inch long and tubular in shape. They appear in the late fall in the Northwest, but are often hidden by the surrounding foliage. Flowers do morph into fruit (though they are un-common) which turn red and are ripe in late spring. Local song birds love the berries.

The stems may develop 3 inch long thorns. Stems and thorns are both covered with brown scales

  Adaptation:
This species prefers full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to a range of soil types and is considered drought tolerant once established.

  Pests:
None reported.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
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