Outstanding Features:
Noted for its silvery foliage and irregular, picturesque plant habit.

Description:
Height: 15-20'
Width: 15-20'
Hardiness Zone: 3b

Russian Olive is a fast growing small tree. It has attractive silver colored long narrow leaves that contrast nicely with the dark bark color. The plant form is quite irregular and becomes very picturesque. The form adds interest to the landscape, especially in winter. Flowers are quite inconspicuous but very fragrant. The fleshy fruit is 1/3 to 1/2"; in length and not very noticeable as it blends into the foliage.

Requirements and Culture:
Requires a well drained soil in full sun. Requires some pruning to remove dead branches and to remove suckers to maintain the interesting plant form. Very heat and drought tolerant. Tolerates deicing salt and alkaline soils.

Limitations:
Susceptible to verticillium wilt, especially if soil is not well drained. Also susceptible to canker diseases. Seeds freely and can become naturalized in favorable sites in dryer climates.

Photo Credit: 1, 2 & 3 MLA.

Minnesota Power | University of Minnesota | Northern States Power Company

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