Practical information to identify and manage non-native, invasive plants and animals
The Quiet Invasion:A Guide to Invasive Species of the Galveston Bay Area
Elaeagnus angustifolia
| USDA Symbol: | ELAN |
| ITIS TSN: | 27770 |
| Presence: | Species of Concern |
| Habitat: | Terrestrial |
| Native Range: | Southern Europe and Western Asia |
Toxic Characteristics
This species is not known to be toxic.Geographic Distribution
Predominant in the western U.S. east to Texas and the Great Plains states; also occurs in some eastern states from Virginia to Pennsylvania. In Texas, naturalized in the Rio Grande basin.Introduction Pathways
Brought to the United States in the late 1800s as an ornamental tree. Later planted for use as wildlife habitat, mine reclamation, and shelterbelts.Specific Primary Habitats
Grows in a wide range of soils. Tolerates high salinity and alkalinity. Usually found in riparian zones and river bottoms where water table is no more than 2 feet from the surface.Identifying Characteristics
Grows as a thorny shrub to a small tree. Stems and branches are flexible, coated with a gray layer of hairs, and bear small thorns. Leaves are green with gray/silver undersides due to coverings of rusty scales and are 1 - 3.5 inches long, smooth-margined, and alternate. Flowers have no petals and are comprised of 4 yellow-green sepals that are fused at the base. Fruit occurs in clusters, and is ovate, 0.5 inches long, greenish yellow to brown, and covered with scales.Reproduction Characteristics
Seeds are the primary method for reproduction, and are transported by water and birds. Flowers in May and June, fruits mature in the late summer, and remain on the tree into the winter. Sprouting from the root crown also occurs, causing spread.Growth Characteristics
Russian olive trees produce seed after 4 to 5 years of growth, soon after which the growth rate increases. Reaches to 30 feet in height.Ecological, Economic, or Social Impact
Outcompetes native vegetation, replacing entire streamside riparian communities with monospecific (single species) stands. Areas upland from rivers are transformed into drier environments. Creates poorer habitat for terrestrial vertebrates; lowers bird species richness.Control
Can be controlled by mechanical removal for stem diameters less than 3.5 inches. Use Glyphosate during the growing season and Imazapyr during the dormant season as foliar herbicides. For cut stumps, use full strength Glyphosate or 2,4-D and Triclopyr.|
Native Species Alternatives
Below is a list of alternative plants that are native to the area:
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Lists
This species belongs to the following lists:
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Images
To view a larger version of an image, click on the thumbnail. Foliage and flowers of the Russian olive. Photo courtesy of Paul Wray, Iowa State University, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 0008139. |
 Russian olive stem showing buds and leaf scars. Photo courtesy of Paul Wray, Iowa State University, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 0008536. |
 Flowers of the Russian olive; note 4 yellow sepals. Photo courtesy of Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 1213001. |
 Infestation of the Russian olive along riverbanks. Photo courtesy of J. Scott Peterson, USDA NRCS, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 1237067. |
 Fruit of the Russian olive. Photo courtesy of Patrick Breen, Oregon State University, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 9005085. |