Oleaster Hedge (Elaeagnus x ebbingei)

Description

Elaeagnus x ebbingei is a robust evergreen hedging plant that provides year-round foliage and structure. It is particularly useful for gardens exposed to wind and coastal conditions, where a hardy screening plant is required.

The foliage features dark green upper surfaces with subtle silver speckles and distinctive silver undersides. This contrast gives the hedge an attractive shimmering appearance as the leaves move in the breeze.

In autumn, Oleaster produces small creamy-white flowers with a pleasant fragrance. These are followed by small orange fruits in spring, adding seasonal interest and potentially providing a food source for garden wildlife.

Its combination of evergreen foliage, adaptable growing habit and relatively fast growth makes it a popular choice for boundaries, screening and privacy planting.

For a different foliage effect, Oleaster 'Limelight' features yellow-green colouring through the centre of its leaves, while Oleaster 'Gilt Edge' has bright yellow margins.

Planting Conditions

Elaeagnus x ebbingei can adapt to a broad range of planting conditions. It is suitable for normal, clay and chalk soils and can grow in full sun, partial shade or full shade.

It is particularly well suited to coastal, windy and exposed sites, making it a useful choice for gardens where shelter is limited.

Although relatively tolerant, avoid planting Oleaster in consistently cold, wet conditions or highly alkaline soils. Good drainage and suitable preparation of the planting area will help young plants establish successfully.

Pruning Advice

For a formal Oleaster hedge, pruning is generally carried out in late summer after flowering. Trim back long or unruly shoots and remove any diseased or damaged growth to maintain the desired shape.

If you are growing a variegated variety, remove any plain green shoots as soon as they appear. Cut these back to where they emerge from the plant to help prevent the green growth from taking over.

Pruning time can also depend on whether you want to retain the plant's fruit. Late-summer trimming can remove the short spurs that produce fruit. If preserving the fruit for wildlife or harvesting is a priority, prune during April or May instead.

Further Information

The ideal planting density depends on the size and root type of the plants you choose, as well as how quickly you want your hedge to develop a full appearance. Recommended planting densities for individual sizes are provided within the product grid.

As a general guide:
Bare root plants: approximately 3-7 plants per metre
Cell-grown plants: approximately 4-6 plants per metre
For a denser boundary, plants can be arranged in a double staggered row or zig-zag pattern. Higher planting densities can help achieve a fuller screen sooner, although spacing should take the mature size and available growing area into account.
When planting a new hedge, prepare the ground thoroughly and provide consistent watering during the establishment period. Good aftercare will help young plants develop strong roots and healthy growth.

12-Month Plant Guarantee

All plants are supplied with a 12-month guarantee, allowing you to order your Oleaster hedge plants with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far apart should Oleaster hedge plants be planted?
Plant spacing depends on the size and root type of the plants. As a general guide, bare root plants can be spaced at around 3-7 per metre, while cell-grown plants can be planted at approximately 4-6 per metre.

Can Oleaster be planted near the coast?
Yes. Elaeagnus x ebbingei is well suited to coastal and exposed locations and can tolerate windy conditions, making it a useful choice for seaside gardens.

Is Silverberry the same as Elaeagnus x ebbingei?
Yes. Silverberry and Ebbing’s Silverberry are common names used for Elaeagnus x ebbingei. It is also widely referred to as Oleaster.

What colour are Oleaster flowers?
Oleaster produces small creamy-white flowers in autumn. They are relatively subtle but have a pleasant fragrance and add seasonal interest to the evergreen foliage.

How can I make an Oleaster hedge grow denser?
Regular pruning can encourage branching and help maintain a compact hedge. Appropriate planting density, adequate watering during establishment and pruning at the right time can all contribute to a fuller appearance.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available within 50 miles of our nursery, making it convenient to have you Oleaster Hedge delivered directly to your property within our local delivery area.

Delivery beyond the 50-mile radius may also be available depending on your location and order. If you are unsure whether your address is within our delivery area, please contact us before placing your order.

All plants are carefully prepared for delivery to help ensure they arrive in good condition. Every plant is also covered by our 12-month plant guarantee, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.