shrub

Autumn olive

Elaeagnus umbellata

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

Autumn olive (Elaeagnus umbellata) — a shrub, for Full sun, Low water. Companions: Heartnut.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Waterlow to medium

↑ Gives back

Mulch_biomasshigh
Shademoderate

Companions

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceNew growth emerges after the last spring frost and consistent warm temperatures.
floweringFlowers appear in late spring as days lengthen.
fruitingFruits develop and ripen in late summer to early autumn, approximately 60 days after flowering.
senescenceLeaves begin to senesce and drop with the first autumn frost and shortening days.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to poor drainage
Nitrogen fixingYes
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatescalcium, magnesium, nitrogen
Soil texturesandy, loamy, clay
Organic matterHigh
Compaction toleranceHigh

Propagation

Methodsseed, cuttings
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~1 yr
Stratificationcold_moist
Self-seedingAggressive
Divisionnot applicable

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, birds