Elaeagnus × ebbingei is one of 45 species of Elaeagnus. They are native to the temperate regions of Asia, North America, the Philippines and, thanks to early settlers, south-eastern Europe…
Elaeagnus × ebbingei Attributes
Elaeagnus × ebbingei is an ideal choice If you’re undecided on exactly which hedging plant you want or need. It is ridiculously hardy once established (even on the coast); truly unbothered by soil or situation; definitely low-maintenance; extremely versatile and distinctively decorative and sweet-scented.
The multi-stemmed Elaeagnus × ebbingei makes an excellent specimen; formal or informal hedge (the thorns deter trespassers) and can also fill or screen awkward, shady corners where few plants thrive and debris accumulates. Plant under a tree or against a wall and up it will climb.
Elaeagnus × ebbingei Description
Elaeagnus × Ebbingei is a hybrid of Elaeagnus macrophylla and Elaeagnus pungens (some authorities suggest Elaeagnus x reflexa). Its leaves are unmistakeable: thick, broad and with a silvery sheen on their underside topped by a dark, near metallic sea-green.
We must mention that rarest thing of all to find on a hedging plant – edible fruit. While It is yet to be recognised as a super-berry (research has so far been inconclusive), the permaculture movement is getting excited! Is this the next Goji? Meantime, let the drupes ripen and simply enjoy – they’re refreshing and vitamin-rich. If you want to maximise its fruiting potential, trim in spring after harvesting the fruit. It may yet follow other Elaeagnus species into semi-commercial fruit production!
All Elaeagnus species fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil and make excellent companion plants. They are increasingly planted in orchards where they can help increase yields by up to 10%.
NB: Some growers graft Elaeagnus × ebbingei onto Elaeagnus multiflora root stock which can cause whole branches to inexplicably die. Our plants are NOT grafted.
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