Small-leaved Silverberry (Elaeagnus parvifolia)

🌱

☀️

Sunlight Prefers full sun to bright partial shade; foliage silvery color diminishes in dense deep shade

💧

Watering Water deeply when the top 5cm of soil dries out; drought tolerant once established

🌡️

Temperature Hardy to -10°C; withstands hot summer temperatures with adequate moisture

🔍

Leaf: Small elliptical leaves with silvery scales on both surfaces, leathery texture
Flower: Fragrant creamy-white bell-shaped blooms, borne in small clusters
Stem: Slender brown stems with silvery scales when young

🛠️

Watering

Water regularly during active growth; allow soil to dry between waterings

Fertilization

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Do not fertilize in winter when plant is dormant

Banana peel compost tea：Fully compost banana peels before use; dilute 1:20 with water for root drench to support flowering and fruiting

Pruning

Trim to maintain desired shape in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges
Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow
Thin dense growth to enhance light penetration and foliage health
Prune lightly after flowering to avoid removing next year's flower buds

⚠️

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects from ingestion

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; ripe berries are edible with a tart-sweet flavor

📖

Culture: N/A

Usage: Hedge plant, erosion control, ornamental foliage; ripe berries are edible