shrub

Silverberry

Elaeagnus commutata

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata) — a shrub, for Full sun, Low water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Waterlow to medium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomassmedium
Wind_shelterhabitat for birds and small mammals

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceNew growth emerges after the last spring frost and when soil temperatures consistently reach 5°C.
floweringFlowers appear approximately one month after emergence, typically in late spring to early summer.
fruitingFruits develop and ripen over summer, maturing about two months after flowering.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop with the onset of the first autumn frosts.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingYes
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatesnitrogen
Soil texturesandy, loamy, clay
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceHigh

Propagation

Methodsseeds, cuttings, suckers
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~2 yr
Stratificationrequires cold stratification for 2-3 months
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionspring

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, birds, small mammals