Silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens)

Silverthorn

Elaeagnus pungens

Its silvery foliage glows in sun, a tough evergreen hedge. Dense ornamental shrub; common names: Silverthorn, Thorny Elaeagnus.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; full sun enhances silvery foliage color; tolerates urban pollution
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Watering Water deeply but infrequently; tolerate dry soil once established; avoid waterlogged roots
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot summer temperatures without significant stress
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval, leathery leaves with silvery undersides; margins slightly wavy
  • Flower: Small, highly fragrant creamy-white blooms clustered in leaf axils
  • Stem/Bark: Thorny woody branches; young stems coated in silvery, scaly hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water every 7-10 days during prolonged dry spells

Fertilization

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive soft growth

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench to support foliage health and flowering
Pruning
  • Trim hedges in late spring after flowering to maintain desired shape
  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in early spring
  • Thin dense growth to improve airflow and sunlight penetration
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Hedge plant, erosion control, ornamental foliage, fragrant flowering specimen