Buy elaeagnus (oleaster)
Elaeagnus is a versatile shrub ideal for adding structure to gardens. Its silver-gray leaves create an attractive evergreen hedge perfect for exposed sites. In spring or autumn, depending on the species, fragrant flowers appear in the leaf axils, adding a delightful aroma. The plant's salt tolerance makes it suitable for coastal gardens. Often referred to as silverberry, it also produces small stone fruits that may be edible. This shrub is a superb choice for informal or bird-friendly gardens and stands out as a fragrant hedge plant. Consider exploring the options to buy Elaeagnus for a robust and decorative addition to any garden space.
What is Elaeagnus and how is it used in hedging?
Elaeagnus, also known as oleaster or silverberry, is a versatile shrub often used in garden hedging. This plant belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family and is highly valued for its nitrogen-fixing abilities and attractive foliage. Oleaster can be a great choice for creating evergreen hedging, providing privacy and acting as a windbreak. The plant's variegated types add a vibrant touch to gardens, while its autumn blooms are fragrant and attract bees. Originally from Asia, Europe, and North America, Elaeagnus can thrive in a variety of environments, including coastal gardens and exposed sites. Its drought tolerance and strong resistance to wind and salt make it ideal for locations where tough conditions prevail. In mythology, oleaster is linked to purification, with rich symbolism in Chinese garden philosophy. Elaeagnus shrubs can also be grown in pots or planters and are suitable for waterside planting and edible gardens, as they produce berries that attract birds. For those looking to buy Elaeagnus, it offers a practical and aesthetically pleasing option for diverse garden applications.
Main traits of Oleaster and Silverberry foliage
Elaeagnus, also known as oleaster, is a versatile plant with many uses in the garden. Its silver-gray leaves are one of its most attractive features, providing a unique look. The Elaeagnus is a hardy hedge plant with silvery leaves and small fragrant flowers. It grows as a semi-evergreen or evergreen shrub, thriving even in drought or windy conditions. Elaeagnus can fix nitrogen, making it a useful plant for enriching the soil.
This shrub can grow upright or spread out widely, reaching heights from 1 to 5 metres. During the flowering months of May and June, and sometimes in autumn, it produces cream white or silvery yellow flowers. These blooms are often fragrant, adding another layer of appeal to gardens. The plant’s resistance to salty conditions makes it ideal for coastal gardens.
Elaeagnus is not only beautiful but also functional. It serves as a windbreak or a fragrant hedge and can be planted as a specimen, in pots, or around water features. The plant’s fragrance and nitrogen-fixing ability enhance biodiversity, attracting beneficial insects. With its silver leaves and the ability to grow in various forms, Elaeagnus is a valuable addition to any garden, offering both beauty and utility.
Elaeagnus shrub features oval, leathery leaves that often display a silvery underside, making it an attractive choice for gardening enthusiasts. The leaf colour primarily ranges from grey-green to a stunning variegated hue, with some varieties showcasing silvery green tones. These shrubs are evergreen all year, retaining their foliage even in winter. The Elaeagnus is quite resilient against harsh weather conditions, showing remarkable wind and drought tolerance. Its deep root system and glossy leaves with a silver sheen contribute to its ability to thrive in various environments.
In terms of winter hardiness, Elaeagnus can withstand temperatures between -23°C to -15°C, placing it within USDA zones 6 to 8. This robust shrub benefits from protection against strong winds and thrives best in well-drained soil. Despite cold temperatures, it maintains its evergreen nature, which is ideal for creating a fragrant hedge in the garden. As a fragrant hedge shrub, it also offers ecological benefits by providing a habitat for beneficial insects and animals.
The Elaeagnus is non-toxic, making it safe for gardens frequented by children and pets. Its silvery foliage offers great ornamental value, while fragrant autumn flowers can enhance the sensory appeal of the garden. Elaeagnus shrubs can even produce edible fruits, adding to their appeal. When planning to grow Elaeagnus ebbingei for screening UK gardens, remember these features for an evergreen structure that supports biodiversity while ensuring safety and beauty.
Where to use Elaeagnus as hedging or a backdrop shrub
Elaeagnus is a versatile plant that serves multiple purposes in the garden. Known for its robust nature, it can thrive in various conditions and offers a range of benefits to any garden landscape. Here are specific ways Elaeagnus can be applied:
Elaeagnus makes an excellent hedge due to its dense foliage and fast growth. Its evergreen nature ensures year-round privacy and shelter.
As a windbreak, Elaeagnus is very effective. The plant's structure can withstand strong winds, making it suitable for exposed areas.
In coastal gardens, Elaeagnus performs well thanks to its salt tolerance. This makes it ideal for planting near the sea.
A fragrant garden can benefit from Elaeagnus with its subtle fragrance, adding another sensory dimension to the space.
Elaeagnus works well as an evergreen structural plant, providing a constant green backdrop even in winter.
For bird-friendly gardens, Elaeagnus offers shelter and food, as its berries attract various bird species.
Use Elaeagnus as a specimen shrub or in a planter for a striking focal point.
As part of waterside planting, Elaeagnus can add texture and variety along ponds or streams.
In edible gardens, Elaeagnus can be a functional yet decorative choice, with some species producing edible berries.
Consider adding Elaeagnus to an informal garden for its natural and relaxed appearance. Its versatility also extends to being trained as an espalier shrub, creating unique shapes against walls or fences. With all these applications, it is easy to see why many choose to buy oleaster for their garden needs.
Best plant combinations for Elaeagnus screening beds
Elaeagnus is a versatile plant that can enhance any garden. It pairs beautifully with various other plant types, creating a harmonious and attractive landscape. In the garden, Elaeagnus can be combined with Viburnum tinus. This combination works well because they both offer year-round interest and dense foliage. Viburnum tinus complements the Elaeagnus with its dark green leaves and lovely white flowers.
Another great plant to pair with Elaeagnus is Escallonia. These shrubs create a stunning contrast with their glossy leaves and fragrant summer blooms. Both plants thrive in similar conditions, making them an ideal combination. Hebe is also an excellent choice to plant alongside Elaeagnus. The small, colourful flowers of Hebe add a vibrant touch to the garden.
Combining Elaeagnus with these plants not only improves the visual appeal but also provides a robust and fragrant hedge. Elaeagnus grows rapidly and is ideal as a robust fast-growing hedge . The evergreen nature and silver leaves of Elaeagnus make it a standout choice for any garden aiming for structure and year-round beauty.
Soil tolerance and sun/shade needs for Elaeagnus (oleaster)
Elaeagnus thrives best in sunny locations, though it can handle partial shade if necessary. This plant requires well-drained soil to grow effectively, making soil drainage a crucial factor. The Elaeagnus shrub is highly adaptable, withstanding both drought and wind, which makes it an excellent choice for exposed sites. To protect against wind, planting Elaeagnus near a fence or wall can provide extra shelter.
The preferred soil for Elaeagnus includes calcareous to neutral types. Proper fertilisation and maintaining soil drainage significantly enhance its growth. Regular watering is needed during dry spells, despite its drought tolerance. The evergreen hedging prefers soil that maintains balanced moisture, but not overly wet conditions, as wind and sun exposure can affect its hydration. The pH level of the soil should ideally be neutral, as this supports healthier growth and resilience. Elaeagnus, also known as silverberry, is a versatile evergreen hedge and a popular choice for hedge plants in the UK. Consider purchasing Elaeagnus for a robust and attractive hedge.
When and how to plant Elaeagnus for quick coverage
Elaeagnus can be planted in spring or autumn, ideally on cool, cloudy days. Plants delivered in pots may be planted year-round except during frost. Preparing the ground well is crucial. Use dry to moderately moist soil, rich in lime or neutral pH. Add compost to improve poor soil quality. Elaeagnus thrives in sunny to partially shaded areas and tolerates wind and sea air. For proper spacing, consider the variety, initial size, and growth rate. Check the plant properties on the Heijnen product page for specific spacing information. Use Heijnen planting soil to ensure the best growth conditions. During planting, ensure that the hole is deep and wide enough for the roots. Water the plant thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Elaeagnus, also known as oleaster and silverberry, requires occasional watering, especially in dry periods. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser supports healthy growth. With its evergreen nature and fragrant foliage, Elaeagnus makes an excellent choice for an evergreen hedge or as part of an attractive, hardy garden.
How to prune and shape Elaeagnus for neat growth
Elaeagnus, also known as oleaster, is a versatile plant, perfect for creating a lush and dense hedge or an attractive standalone shrub in the garden. This evergreen shrub thrives all year and its fragrant flowers bloom in autumn, attracting bees and providing berries for birds.
Care and maintenance of Elaeagnus:
Ensure well-drained soil and position in sun to partial shade.
Drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells.
Check regularly for unwanted runners to maintain shape.
Pruning advice for Elaeagnus:
Prune in spring to remove dead or weak branches, using sharp secateurs or a lopper.
Shaping can be done in spring and summer to encourage compact growth.
Very low maintenance; regular pruning keeps it neat and tidy.
Fertilising Elaeagnus:
Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to boost growth.
Use organic mulch to retain moisture and improve soil quality.
Watering requirements for Elaeagnus:
Require minimal watering; water deeply during prolonged droughts.
Check soil moisture to ensure it's not too dry or too soggy.
Winter protection for Elaeagnus:
Generally hardy, but newly planted shrubs may need protection from severe frost.
Transplanting Elaeagnus:
Best done in autumn when the plant is less active.
Ensure the root ball stays intact during transplanting.
Water thoroughly after moving to help establish.
The silvery leaves and subtle flowers of Elaeagnus
Elaeagnus offers a range of visual delights for any garden. The silvery leaves are a standout feature, often appearing in shades of grey-green or variegated silvery green. They provide an attractive backdrop throughout the year, making this shrub a popular choice for a silverleaf shrub effect. The fragrant autumn flowers add to its appeal, with cream white and silvery yellow blossoms that fill the air with a subtle, pleasant scent.
Elaeagnus is a robust evergreen hedge that tolerates wind well. This makes it ideal for windy areas or coastal gardens. It serves as both a decorative element and a functional barrier, offering privacy while being bird-friendly and drought-tolerant. The oleaster's ability to withstand salt makes it perfect for seaside locations. Its upright or broadly spreading growth form adds structure to informal or fragrant gardens. Additionally, some Elaeagnus types produce edible fruits, further enhancing its ecological value. Whether used as a fragrant hedge plant or a salt-tolerant, silverberry shrub, Elaeagnus delivers both beauty and resilience.
Favourite Elaeagnus varieties for UK conditions
Elaeagnus, also known as oleaster, is a versatile plant choice for gardens. These plants are particularly favoured for their hardy nature and ability to thrive in the UK climate. They are excellent as silverberry, making them ideal for evergreen hedges. The salt-tolerant properties of Elaeagnus make it perfect for exposed sites near the coast.
Elaeagnus comes in various types, each offering unique features suitable for different garden needs. Below are some popular Elaeagnus varieties:
Elaeagnus × ebbingei haag : This variety is excellent for screening. It's a fast-growing evergreen hedge that offers privacy while also being salt-tolerant.Elaeagnus angustifolia : Known for its fragrant flowers that bloom in autumn, this type is perfect for adding a natural fragrance to the garden.Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' : Ideal for smaller gardens, this variety provides a dense shrub that remains evergreen all year.Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Limelight' : This variety features striking variegated leaves, adding visual interest to any garden.Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata' : With its golden-yellow leaves, this type is a standout choice for creating attractive hedge plants.
Using Elaeagnus in the garden not only provides visual appeal but also offers practical benefits such as nitrogen fixing, which enriches soil quality. Many varieties grow well as fragrant hedge shrubs, providing a pleasant aroma. Whether choosing to grow Elaeagnus ebbingei for screening in UK gardens or selecting variegated types for decorative purposes, there is a suitable variety for every need.
All these popular Elaeagnus varieties are available to order online at Heijnen. Enjoy the beauty and functionality of Elaeagnus in your garden all year round.
Strengths and watchouts with Elaeagnus hedging
Elaeagnus is a popular choice for gardeners seeking a resilient and attractive hedge. This evergreen plant offers several benefits:
Advantages:
Elaeagnus remains green throughout the year, providing consistent privacy in the garden.
It is ideal for hedging, creating a natural boundary that is both aesthetic and functional.
The plant is highly wind- and drought-tolerant, making it suitable for various climates.
Elaeagnus produces fragrant blooms in the autumn, adding a pleasant scent to outdoor spaces.
Many species are salt-tolerant, a great option for coastal areas.
Disadvantages:
Certain varieties, like E. umbellata, may spread rapidly if not controlled.
Some species of Elaeagnus are considered invasive, so monitoring is necessary.
In wet and cold winters, the plant can lose some of its leaves.
Proper soil preparation and careful placement, along with adequate care and timely fertilisation, reduce the risk of diseases and pests. Always ensure plants receive the best possible care for optimal growth and flowering.
Buy hardy Elaeagnus hedges now at Heijnen
Elaeagnus is a reliable choice for any garden, especially as a hedge plant. It is well-known for being wind-resistant and able to thrive in coastal gardens or as evergreen structural plants. The evergreen nature of Elaeagnus ensures that
gardens stay lush all year, making it a perfect addition to bird-friendly gardens. Its fragrant autumn bloom adds a delightful scent when other flowers may not be in bloom.
Purchasing Elaeagnus offers many benefits. This plant is not only evergreen but also wind- and drought-tolerant, making it ideal for hedge plants for exposed sites in the UK. Variegated types add visual interest, while its nitrogen-fixing properties enrich the soil. The autumn bloom of this oleaster provides fragrance at a time when gardens can lack appeal.
For those looking to transform their garden into a fragrant and evergreen haven, buy Elaeagnus from Heijnen. Order the strong Elaeagnus (Oleaster) from Heijnen and create an evergreen hedge combining privacy and beauty.