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 to obtuse apex and cuneate base
Margin
Entire (smooth) and slightly wavy
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent midrib and looping lateral veins
Key Features
Distinguished primarily by the silvery-scaly undersides of its alternate leaves, young twigs covered in silvery scales, and small brown dots on the ripe red berries
Description
Autumn Olive is a large, deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It features spreading branches, often with thorny twigs, and produces fragrant yellowish-white flowers in spring followed by abundant red, speckled berries in autumn. The foliage is notable for its contrasting green top and silvery underside.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed areas, old fields, forest edges, and roadsides; highly adaptable to poor, dry soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea); introduced to North America as an ornamental and wildlife plant, where it is now widely naturalized and often invasive