Fragrans Silverberry (Elaeagnus fragrans)

Family: Elaeagnaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Elaeagnus fragrans is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in) at a medium rate. It is not frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent. The fruit is about 6 - 8mm long and contains a single large seed. Seed - raw or cooked. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent.; The fruit is about 6 - 8mm long and contains a single large seed.; Seed - raw or cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Abundant near seashores. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)