Broad-leaved Oleaster (Elaeagnus macrophylla)

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

Elaeagnus macrophylla is an evergreen 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 7 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from October to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich flavour when fully ripe, though it is somewhat astringent before then. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; A very acceptable rich flavour when fully ripe, though it is somewhat astringent before then.; A potentially very valuable crop, ripening as it does in April and May.; We are not sure how reliable a crop it is though, some plants bear very heavy crops whilst others rarely bear fruit.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets in lowland, especially near the sea. (Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)