Bastard Oleaster (Elaeagnus latifolia)

Family: Elaeagnaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Elaeagnus latifolia is a deciduous Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft) by 3 m (9ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and 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.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasantly refreshing. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Acid and somewhat astringent, it is mainly used in preserves, pies etc.; Another report describes it as acid and pleasantly refreshing.; The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent.

Habitat & North American Range

Swamps, to elevations of 1500 metres in the Himalayas. Forest openings at elevations of 1500 - 2600 metres in Nepal. (Zone 8)