Elaeagnus oldhamii

Physical Characteristics

Elaeagnus oldhamii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 4 m (13ft 1in). It is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from September to December, and the seeds ripen from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - S. China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Seed Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[177]. The fruit must be fully ripe before it can be enjoyed raw, if even slightly under-ripe it will be quite astringent[K]. The globose fruit is about 9mm wide and contains a single large seed[266, K]. Seed - raw or cooked. The globose fruit is up to 9mm long and contains a single large seed that can be up to 8mm long[266]. It can be eaten with the fruit though the seed case is rather fibrous.

Medicinal Uses

Cancer The fruit of many members of this genus is a very rich source of vitamins and minerals, especially in vitamins A, C and E, flavanoids and other bio-active compounds. It is also a fairly good source of essential fatty acids, which is fairly unusual for a fruit. It is being investigated as a food that is capable of reducing the incidence of cancer and also as a means of halting or reversing the growth of cancers[214].

Known Hazards

None known