Trebizond Date (Elaeagnus orientalis)

Family: Elaeagnaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Elaeagnus orientalis is a deciduous Shrub growing to 12 m (39ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and mealy but of better quality than the closely related E. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Sweet and mealy but of better quality than the closely related E.; Eaten fresh or made into sherbet and preserves.; 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

By streams and on river banks, to elevations of 3000 metres in Turkey. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)