Maintenance Landscaping Design

Elaeagnus macrophylla is a medium-sized deciduous shrub native to East Asia. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, and is also used in traditional Chinese medicine. The leaves, roots, and fruits of the plant are all used in various medical formulations.

Alternative name

• Wolfberry
  
• Gou qi zi
  
• Chinese wolfberry
  
• Medlar
  
• Schisandra berry

Things to Know

• Elaeagnus macrophylla is a deciduous shrub that is native to Asia.
  
• It typically grows to 6-8’ tall and to 8-10’ wide.
  
• It has a rounded habit with ovate to elliptic, dark green leaves (to 4” long).
  
• Tiny, fragrant, white flowers bloom in axillary clusters in late spring to early summer.
  
• Flowers are followed by small, ovoid, edible fruits that ripen in late summer to early fall and may persist into winter.
  
• Fruits are initially green, but they ripen to yellow and have a sweet, nutty flavor.
  
• Elaeagnus macrophylla prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained soils.
  
• It is somewhat tolerant of poor soils, but it does not like wet soils.
  
• It is also tolerant of urban pollution.
  
• This shrub is relatively pest and disease free.

Related plant:
Elaeagnus Multiflora

Planting Process

1. For elaeagnus macrophylla, first step is to plant in well-drained soil.
   
2. Make sure to water regularly, especially during the summer months.
   
3. Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
   
4. Prune in early spring to shape.
   
5. Enjoy the beautiful, fragrant flowers!

Related plant:
Elaeagnus Hedge

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, Elaeagnus macrophylla prefers well-drained soils but is tolerant of a wide range of soils including heavy clay soils. It also tolerates salt and smog and can be used as a street tree.

Light requirement

So, like the other elaeagnus plants, elaeagnus macrophylla requires full sun to partial sun to grow properly. The plant should receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, but it can tolerate up to 8 hours of sunlight per day.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition that is most ideal for Elaeagnus macrophylla is one that is relatively cool and not too hot. This plant is native to areas that have a moderate climate, so a temperature condition that is too extreme in either direction can be harmful to the plant. For example, if the temperature gets too hot, the leaves of the plant may begin to droop and the plant may stop growing as quickly. On the other hand, if the temperature gets too cold, the leaves may turn brown and the plant may become dormant.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 60%. If the humidity drops below 40%, the leaves will start to drop. If the humidity exceeds 60%, the leaves will become soggy and start to rot.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, this kind of plant needs is one that is high in phosphorus. The roots of the elaeagnus macrophylla are very aggressive and can easily damage septic tanks, sewer lines, and patios if not kept in check. This shrub can grow up to 20 feet tall and just as wide, making it a very large and potentially dangerous plant if not properly maintained.

About light

Pruning is an important part of keeping your elaeagnus macrophylla plant healthy and looking its best. You should prune your plant regularly to remove any dead or dying branches, to encourage new growth, and to shape the plant the way you want it to look. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp shears to make clean cuts.

The Propagation

Propagation of elaeagnus macrophylla is typically done through root or stem cuttings taken from the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be 4-6 inches long. Cuttings can be taken from both the softwood and hardwood of the plant. The cuttings should be placed in water or moistened potting mix until they develop roots. Once roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate takes place during the spring and early summer. However, the plant may continue to grow and produce new leaves throughout the summer months. The average growth rate for this plant is between 3 and 5 inches per year.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew and root rot. Powdery mildew is a fungus that appears as a white powder on the leaves and stems of the plant. Root rot is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant and prevents the plant from taking up water and nutrients. These problems can be controlled by treating the plant with a fungicide.

List to Know

• Make sure to plant elaeagnus macrophylla in an area that gets full sun.
  
• Give the plant room to grow by planting it in a location where it will have plenty of space.
  
• fertilize regularly using a high-quality fertilizer.
  
• water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is always moist but not soggy.
  
• prune the plant regularly to promote new growth.
  
• Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.
  
• After the plant blooms, cut back the spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
  
• Protect the plant from harsh winter weather by covering it with a burlap cloth.
  
• Check the plant regularly for signs of pests or diseases and take action immediately if any are found.
  
• Enjoy the beautiful flowers and foliage of elaeagnus macrophylla in your garden!

Alternative Plants

• Elaeagnus x ebbingei
  
• Elaeagnus oxycarpon
  
• Elaeagnus umbellata
  
• Elaeagnus glutinosa
  
• Elaeagnus rhamnoides
  
• Elaeagnus commutata
  
• Elaeagnus angustifolia
  
• ElaeagnusCalocedrus
  
• Elaeagnus excelsa
  
• Elaeagnus latifolia

Source:
Elaeagnus macrophylla information from the Global Compendium …
Elaeagnus pungens (Silverthorn, Thorny Elaeagnus, Thorny …
| Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants | University of Florida, IFAS