Elaeagnus angustifolia, or Russian olive, is not recommended for planting, due to invasive tendencies. This species is non-native to Ontario with a natural range in Asia and limited areas of eastern Europe. It can thrive under a wide range of soil textures including sand and heavy clay, and can withstand flooding and silting, however, it grows best in deep sandy or loamy soils with only slight salt and alkali content. The tree has an aggressive root system and fast growth rate, and it spreads via birds which allows it to outcompete native species. The Auditor General of Ontario has specifically flagged this tree species as a concern in the nursery trades ("Value-for-Money Audit � Management of Invasive Species," 2022), and as such should not be recommended for planting. For an alternative native to North America, consider Amelanchier spp.
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Residential, Wide Median, Restricted Urban Site
Management Notes
Management Notes
None of significance
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Fast (60cm or more per year)
Width
4 - 6m
Height
4 - 6m
Soil Quantity
0 - 10 m
Leaves
Deciduous
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. Verticillium wilt can be an issue, which can cause branch/ limb death and severe cases can cause tree mortality.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Moderate
Salt Spray Tolerance
Tolerant
Flooding Tolerance
Low
Drought Tolerance
Very High
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to alkaline soil (5.0 to 8.0)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)