In our latitudes, the evergreen oleaginous species only do not shed their leaves in the mild winters. In severe frost, the dark green foliage of the ornamental trees falls off; however, the shrub will sprout again in spring.
The Elaeagnus ebbingei is hardy, but often loses its leaves in cold regions in winter
Oleasters (Elaeagnus) are a genus of plants with over 40 species from the oleaster family. The mostly shrub-like ornamental tree is robust, easy to care for and tolerates pruning. The shrubs are suitable for solitary and group planting as well as for keeping in tubs. Some Elaeagnus species can be grown well in hedge plants or decorative tall stems.
Oleaster species
Most olive willow species have their origin in Asia and have different degrees of frost hardiness depending on the species. They also differ in growth height, foliage color and flowering time. Some olive trees have thorns on their branches. Many oleaster species produce fruits that are edible. For the most part, the oleasters are deciduous trees, e.g. B.
- Narrow-leaved oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia),
- Elaeagnus commutata,
- Edible willow tree (Elaeagnus multiflora), also known as rich-flowered willow tree or Japanese willow tree.
- Coral willow tree (Elaeagnus umbellata), also called umbrella willow tree or umbrella willow tree.
Evergreen oleaster species
Wintergreen oleaginous willow (Elaeagnus ebbingei) and thorny oleaginous willow (Elaeagnus pungens) are the most common evergreen ornamental trees in this country. The Elaeagnus ebbingei has an upright habit, while the Elaeagnus pungens grows wide. Both species are not very high at around 2-2.5 m and have elliptical, elongated leaves that are shiny dark green on top.
Maintenance of evergreen oleasters
Although the evergreen Elaeagnus species are sufficiently frost-resistant, they only retain their foliage during mild winters. In severe forest the foliage is shed, but only to sprout again in spring. The older plants tolerate the frost better than the younger ones. These should initially receive winter protection during prolonged cold periods.
A sheltered location in the sun or semi-shade is an advantage. Dry soil is well tolerated by the olive trees, but waterlogging should be avoided. Regular cutting measures and fertilizers are not required.
tips
The late flowering period (between September and December) of the evergreen oleaster species makes them a valuable source of food for insects, but is also the reason why the fruits usually do not ripen in this country.