Autumn Olive
Elaeagnus umbellata · Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acute apex and rounded to cuneate base
Margin
Entire (smooth), sometimes slightly wavy
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and slightly sunken lateral veins
Key Features
The most distinguishing key features are the alternate leaves with silvery-scaled undersides, reddish-brown twigs, and the tiny brown/silver dots speckled across the silvery lower leaf surface and fruits
Description
Autumn Olive is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It features dark reddish-brown branches often ending in sharp thorns or spurs. In spring, it produces an abundance of small, highly fragrant yellowish-white flowers that attract numerous pollinators. These are followed by prolific clusters of round, juicy red berries speckled with silver scales in the autumn.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed areas, forest edges, old fields, and open woods. Highly adaptable to poor, dry soils due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities, and prefers full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia including China, Japan, and Korea. Widely introduced and naturalized across eastern and central North America, where it is frequently considered an invasive species