Autumn Olive
Elaeagnus umbellata · Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to ovate
Margin
Entire (smooth) with slightly wavy edges
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and arched lateral veins
Key Features
Distinguished by the unique silvery-white scales dotted across both the upper green leaf surface and the entirely silvery-white undersides, alternate simple leaves with entire margins, and the presence of small brown-to-silvery scales on the twigs and buds.
Description
Autumn Olive is a deciduous shrub or small tree that typically grows 10 to 20 feet tall with a dense, rounded, and spreading habit. The bark is brown and smooth to slightly furrowed on older stems. In spring, it produces fragrant, creamy-white to yellowish tubular flowers that attract numerous pollinators. These are followed by abundant, round, juicy red berries speckled with silver dots in the autumn. The foliage remains a dull silvery-green throughout the growing season, providing a distinct shimmering appearance in the wind.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed areas, forest edges, open woodlands, old fields, and along roadsides. Prefers full sun to partial shade and adapts well to poor, dry, or well-drained soils due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities.
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. Introduced to North America as an ornamental and for wildlife habitat, it is now widely naturalized and considered invasive across much of the eastern and central United States.