Elaeagnus multiflora
Cherry elaeagnus · Elaeagnus · Goumi · Cherry silverberry · Gumi
Description
Source: leafsnapElaeagnus multiflora, commonly known as the Goumi berry, is a deciduous shrub in the Elaeagnaceae family. Native to China, Japan, and Korea, it has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Europe. This plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and has a spreading habit with thorny branches. The leaves of Elaeagnus multiflora are dark green on the top and silvery underneath. In late spring or early summer, the plant produces small, fragrant yellow flowers, which are followed by small red berries that ripen in mid-summer. These berries have a sweet-tart flavor and are edible. Elaeagnus multiflora is notable for its ability to fix nitrogen from the air into its roots, making it an important plant for soil improvement. It can thrive in various soil types—including sandy, loamy, or clay soils—as long as they are well-drained. The Goumi berry has multiple uses. It is popular for ornamental purposes due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Additionally, it is a significant food source for wildlife, such as birds that feed on its fruits. Humans can also enjoy the berries, which are high in nutritional value, either fresh or dried, or used to make jams, jellies, or wine. Overall, Elaeagnus multiflora is an attractive shrub that offers numerous ecological and economic benefits, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape design project.
Care Guide
💧 Water Every 7 days
Cherry silverberry is a deciduous plant native to East Asia that thrives in well-drained soils. It is resilient to different humidity levels and requires moderate watering every three weeks. During the dry season, it conserves water by shedding its leaves.
How should I water my Cherry silverberry plant in the best way?
To promote excellent root development in your plants, it's helpful to follow a few tips. Firstly, when watering, it's best to put a garden hose at the base of the plant rather than directly spraying the leaves. If your plants are located outdoors and exposed to direct sunlight, keep in mind that the leaves will require more water. To ensure the roots are properly moistened, you can use bubblers specifically designed to provide water to each plant. Soaker hoses are another useful tool, especially when adding or removing plants, as they can cover the entire garden bed and help push the roots deeper into the soil. Remember to drain any excess water and wait for the soil to dry before watering again. For disease prevention, it's recommended to water at ground level. On a sunny day, it can be beneficial to spray the entire bush with water. Whether your plants are in pots or in the ground, it's important to prioritize deep watering rather than light sprinkling, as Cherry silverberry prefers this method.
What should I do if I give too much or too little water to a Cherry silverberry plant?
When a Cherry silverberry is overwatered, its leaves can turn yellow, drop off, and wilt. The plant may also look dull and unhealthy, with mushy stems. To address these signs, it's best to adjust your watering schedule. Wilting can also be a sign of under watering, which is indicated by crispy and dry leaves. In this case, check the soil moisture and if it's dry, water the plant thoroughly. Despite sufficient watering, the Cherry silverberry may still appear dry with yellow leaves for a few days due to root damage. Once the plant recovers, the yellowing of leaves will stop. When keeping the Cherry silverberry indoors, always check the moisture levels and avoid overwatering. If you notice black spots, let the soil dry out by withholding water for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so transfer the plant to a different pot if you observe discolored and slimy roots. Prevent root rot by avoiding excessive moisture in the soil. When planting the Cherry silverberry outdoors, dig a little deeper and if the soil feels too dry, it may require more watering to aid in the plant's recovery.
How frequently should I water my Cherry silverberry?
The Cherry silverberry prefers deep and infrequent watering. When watering potted plants, it's important to soak them in a gallon of water each time, as the water storage in pots is limited and the soil can dry out quickly. In cold regions, watering is required every 3 to 5 days. Watering early in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors, is recommended. You can also check the soil moisture by examining the top 2-3 inches of soil - if it's dry, it's time to water the plant. On hot days, you may need to check the soil moisture daily, as the heat can cause it to dry out rapidly. If you have a garden, irrigation of the soil is necessary. In hot climates, watering once a week is sufficient. Only water when you notice that about 2 to 3 inches of soil have become too dry. It's important to consider the amount of rainfall and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. During spring and fall, when the Cherry silverberry generally grows, applying mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep can help conserve water when they're outdoors. Sandy soil requires more frequent watering due to its fast drainage, while clay soil needs less water, with a watering interval of 2-3 days to prevent root rot. To keep track of watering, you can mark it on the calendar and be mindful if you notice the leaves drooping as it might indicate a delay in watering.
How much water should I give my Cherry silverberry plant?
The Cherry silverberry generally needs about a gallon of water on a regular schedule. For potted plants, water them deeply until you see water dripping from the bottom of the pot. Let the soil dry before watering again. Use a water calculator or moisture meter to track how much water you've given the plant in a week. Water generously during the flowering period but let the moisture evaporate to avoid root rot. If the Cherry silverberry is planted outdoors with sufficient rainfall, it may not need extra watering. When the plant is young or newly planted, ensure it receives 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it grows, it can rely solely on rainfall. Only water it fully during the cooler parts of the day if the weather is too hot or if there has been no rainfall for 2-3 weeks to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be necessary during prolonged dry periods.
Should I change how often I water my Cherry silverberry depending on the time of year or the weather?
The Cherry silverberry prefers outdoor conditions with regular rainfall, but can tolerate dry periods. In spring and fall, it needs moist soil but not overly wet. Alternating between dry and moist soil is beneficial for its growth. During the summer, hot weather and lack of rain can cause water to evaporate quickly, so more frequent watering may be necessary. In winter, the Cherry silverberry requires less water as it goes dormant. Well-draining soil like terracotta can help with water evaporation during this time. Once it starts to leaf out in spring, watering can be skipped as it can rely on rain. Good drainage is important throughout the year, especially in pots. Keep the plant well-watered in summer but ensure adequate drainage to prevent cold and wet roots. Deep soaking once or twice a week is recommended, avoiding shallow sprinkling that can encourage fungal growth and may not reach the roots. Even in dormancy, the plant should not completely dry out. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot, especially in winter. Applying mulch can help conserve moisture and promote healthy blooms.
☀️ Light Full sun
Cherry silverberry does best in locations where it gets plenty of sun each day. It can also adapt to spots with less sunlight, so this sturdy plant is generally resilient. Although different light levels don't have a major effect, insufficient sun can limit its growth and excessive sun may cause leaf scorch.
What are the sunlight requirements for Cherry silverberry?
Cherry silverberry thrives when it receives ample amounts of sunlight each day, making it essential for the plant to be in environments that offer full to partial sun exposure. Full sun is defined as above 6 hours of direct sunlight, while partial sun pertains to about 3-6 hours of sunlight. It's important to observe how sunlight moves through your garden to find spots that provide your plants with an ideal balance of light and shade, ensuring their well-being and growth.
How does varied lighting affect the growth of Cherry silverberry?
Cherry silverberry is generally resilient and can acclimate to different lighting conditions, flourishing under ample sun exposure and adapting to areas with less sunlight. However, inadequate sunlight may lead to stunted growth of the plant, while excessive sunlight exposure could cause leaf scorch. To support optimal growth, especially indoors or in low-light environments, the use of artificial light can be beneficial. LED lights, suitable for offering the specific wavelengths needed by plants, can be used to supplement natural light, with different wattage requirements based on the plant's sunlight needs.
What symptoms indicate Cherry silverberry is not receiving adequate sunlight?
Symptoms of insufficient sunlight in Cherry silverberry include smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, faster leaf drop, slower or halted new growth, paler new leaves, and conditions like chlorosis or sunscald. These signs suggest the plant is struggling with light deficiency, which can lead to a decrease in chlorophyll and essential nutrients. Conversely, excess sunlight can cause symptoms like leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching as the plant tries to minimize water loss and damage.
What are some solutions to improve Cherry silverberry's sunlight exposure?
To optimize Cherry silverberry's sunlight exposure, gradually adjust the plant's position to a sunnier location, aiming for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. For indoor plants, position them near a south-facing window, keep curtains open during the day, or use artificial grow lights if the plant is large or not easily movable. Outdoors, ensure a gradual transition to avoid sunburn. Removing obstructions like overhanging branches can increase sunlight access. For small plants that can be moved, consider transplanting during their dormant period to a sunnier spot with good drainage.
🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C
Cherry silverberry is a plant that grows best in a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 41 to 90 °F (5 to 32 ℃). It originates from areas with mild and relatively steady temperatures across seasons. Sudden or extreme temperature changes may require adjustments to protect the plant.
What is the optimal climate for Cherry Silverberry?
Cherry Silverberry thrives best in a temperate climate, with optimal temperature ranges between 41 to 90°F (5 to 32°C). It originates from regions that typically experience mild and fairly consistent temperatures throughout the year. This plant is known for its strong cold resistance, making special frost protection measures generally unnecessary. However, in anticipation of winter temperatures dropping below -30°C, it's recommended to protect the plant by wrapping its trunk and branches with non-woven fabric or cloth. Additionally, watering the plant abundantly before the first freeze in autumn, to keep the soil moist, helps safeguard against drought and water scarcity during the colder months.
How does Cherry Silverberry react to low temperatures?
Cherry Silverberry is quite cold-tolerant, ideally kept above -25°C during winter. If temperatures fall below -30°C, the plant may not show immediate loss during winter but expect issues come spring. The most common cold-related problems include branches becoming brittle and dry, and a lack of new shoots emerging. In this scenario, the recommended course of action is to prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves come spring, to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's health.
What should be done if Cherry Silverberry is exposed to high temperatures?
Cherry Silverberry prefers temperatures below 32°C during summer. Exposure to temperatures above 35°C may cause the leaves to lighten in color, tips to become dry and withered, and increase susceptibility to sunburn. To manage these issues, trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts of the plant. It's also advisable to move the plant to a cooler location, away from direct midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to provide relief. Ensuring the soil remains moist by watering the plant in the morning and evening will further mitigate the effects of high temperatures.
What is the botanical name of Cherry Silverberry?
The botanical name of Cherry Silverberry is Elaeagnus multiflora.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
The Cherry silverberry plant needs sufficient nutrients for optimal fruit production. Fertilize in early spring to encourage new growth and flowering. Regular fertilization helps the plant stay healthy, produce more flavorful fruit, and prevents nutrient deficiency problems like yellow leaves and reduced fruit production.
Why should I put fertilizer on my Cherry silverberry?
Fertilizing a Cherry silverberry is crucial for various reasons. Firstly, it enhances the production of beautiful blooms. To achieve this, it is advisable to fertilize the plant in early spring. This ensures excellent flowers during that season. Additionally, fertilizer provides the Cherry silverberry with ample energy to store in the ground during dormant growth phases. By supplying extra nutrients during fall planting or late spring, the Cherry silverberry can accumulate more energy to use when active growth resumes.
What is the best time to put fertilizer on my Cherry silverberry?
Fertilizing Cherry silverberry requires careful timing. Applying fertilizer too early while the plant is still dormant is ineffective as it will be washed away by rainwater, resulting in waste and pollution. The first round of fertilizer should be applied in early spring, followed by monthly applications until early summer.
When is the best time to not fertilize my Cherry silverberry?
To avoid excessive leaf growth without many blooms, it's important to avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen for Cherry silverberry. Look for a fertilizer with lower nitrogen levels compared to other nutrients. Additionally, avoid fertilizing Cherry silverberry after early autumn, as this can lead to too much growth just before winter. It's also important to avoid fertilizing during hot and dry times of the year, as dry soil is not as effective at delivering fertilizer and can stimulate growth that requires more water. It's best to apply fertilizer earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Lastly, be cautious about unintentionally giving Cherry silverberry a double dose of fertilizer, as it can absorb fertilizer applied to nearby plants or lawns.
What kind of fertilizer does my Cherry silverberry plant require?
To ensure optimal growth of your Cherry silverberry, it is recommended to use a fertilizer that contains a balanced mix of nutrients, with a slightly higher amount of phosphorus. Alternatively, you can improve the soil by adding organic materials like compost, worm castings, and manure. Experienced gardeners often supplement with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus when flower buds start to appear. This promotes better flower development, resulting in larger and longer-lasting blooms. There are various forms of fertilizers available, but liquid or powdered forms are considered best for Cherry silverberry. Whichever type you choose, make sure to dilute the fertilizer and apply it while watering your plant.
How can I fertilize my Cherry silverberry plant?
To properly fertilize your Cherry silverberry, it's crucial to follow the specific fertilizer instructions and do some research on how to use it. Over-fertilizing can harm your plant, so it's important to determine the appropriate amount. Generally, you can estimate the amount based on the tree's age or trunk diameter. A rule of thumb is to use one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound. Granular and organic fertilizers like blood meal should be sprinkled around the base of the tree up to its drip line (the space under the farthest branches), while ensuring it doesn't touch the trunk. These substances gradually break down and filter into the soil, where the roots absorb them. After fertilizing, apply a one-inch layer of compost around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
Cherry silverberry is prized for its small white flowers and edible red berries. To ensure a productive growing season, it requires pruning in early spring. Begin by removing any dead branches and thinning out overcrowded areas to improve air circulation. Then, shape the plant to encourage healthy growth and increase fruit production.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Elaeagnus
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 4-8
- Mature Height
- 1.83 m to 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 1.83 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White, Yellow
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- Japan