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Silverberry / Oleaster (Elaeagnus)
Elaeagnus
γ°γ
The collective name for deciduous or evergreen shrubs and small trees in genus Elaeagnus, Elaeagnaceae family. ~15 species native to Japan. Branches bear thorns; leaves and young fruit are covered with silvery to brownish scales. Tubular white to pale yellow flowers in spring or early summer produce elliptical red drupes with sweet-tart flesh, eaten fresh or made into liquor. Includes natsu-gumi, aki-gumi, bikkuri-gumi, and nawashiro-gumi among others. Unrelated to the confectionery gummy.
Identification Points
- βSilvery scales on leaves and shoots
- βThorny branches
- βElliptical red fruit with longitudinal striations
Habitat
Mountain forest edges and grasslands
Season
April to June (flowers); May to November (fruit, depending on species)
Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Leaf arrangement
Alternate
Leaf type
Simple
Growth form
Tree
Evergreen/Deciduous
Deciduous
Habitat
Forest
Phylogenetic Positionγ°γη§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Angiosperms > Eudicots > Core eudicots > Rosids > Rosales > Elaeagnaceae
Divergence Era
Paleogene (approx. 55 million years ago)
Sources & References
AI-generated, needs verification