How to Grow Elaeagnus
Elaeagnus × ebbingei
Elaeagnus is a tough, fast-growing evergreen that makes an excellent hedge or windbreak. It thrives in most soils including poor, dry, and coastal conditions. The tiny autumn flowers are insignificant but intensely fragrant. Variegated cultivars like 'Gilt Edge' and 'Limelight' add year-round colour. Prune in late spring to keep in bounds — it responds well to hard cutting.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Rarely needed. Mulch with compost in spring for hedging plants to maintain vigour.
Watch For
- Reversion (green shoots on variegated forms)
- Coral spot on dead wood
- Elaeagnus sucker growth
Pet Safety
Care Requirements
Light
Full sun to partial shade
Thrives in full sun or partial shade. Tolerates exposed and coastal positions. Variegated forms colour best in brighter light.
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established
Very drought-tolerant once established. Water only during prolonged dry spells in the first year or two. Mature plants rarely need supplemental water.
Fertilizing
Rarely needed
Thrives in poor soils without feeding. Mulch hedging plants with compost in spring to maintain vigour if soil is very depleted.
Pruning
Late spring, trim hedges twice yearly
Trim to shape in late spring after the main growth flush. For hedges, a second lighter trim in late summer. Remove reverted green shoots immediately on variegated forms.
