Russian Olive
Elaeagnus angustifolia

Family: Oleaster (Elaeagnaceae)
AKA: Silver Berry, Wild Olive
Photo taken on: May 20, 2009
Location: White Rock, NM
Life Zones: Plains to foothills
Habitat: Dry areas and watercourses

An escapee from cultivation. Can be a shrub or a tree growing to 25ft. The current year's growth is covered with silvery scales giving a felt-like appearance. The silvery leaves are lance-shaped or oval and remain silvery until they fall. The small yellow flowers are aromatic. The fruit, the "olives", are orange or yellow covered with silver scales.

NOXIOUS