Russian Olive Tree Seeds

Russian Olive Tree Seeds

(Elaeagnus angustifolia)

Elaeagnus angustifolia, commonly known as Russian olive, is a deciduous tree or large shrub native to southern Europe and Asia. It has been widely introduced to other regions, including North America, where it has become an invasive species in some areas. 

Description:

• Height: Typically grows between 4 to 7 meters (13 to 23 feet), but can occasionally reach heights of up to 10 meters (33 feet).
• Leaves: Narrow, lance-shaped, silvery-gray leaves that give the plant a distinctive silvery appearance.
• Flowers: Small, fragrant, and yellow, blooming in late spring. They attract pollinators like bees.
• Fruits: Produces small, olive-like fruits that are edible but mealy, typically a yellowish or silvery color when ripe.
• Bark: Reddish-brown to grayish, often with thorns on younger stems.

Growth Conditions:

• Soil: Tolerates a wide range of soils, from sandy to loamy, and can even grow in poor, salty soils.
• Watering: Very drought-resistant once established, but can also tolerate periods of high moisture, making it highly adaptable to various environments.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Uses:

• Ornamental: Due to its silvery foliage and fragrant flowers, it is often used in landscaping.
• Windbreaks: Commonly planted as windbreaks or for erosion control due to its fast growth and hardiness.
• Medicinal and Edible Uses: The fruits and seeds are sometimes used in traditional medicine and can be consumed, although they are not widely considered palatable.

Zones: 2 to 7

Germination Range: 70-90%

Stratification Requirement: 9-12 weeks cold moist stratification required.  

Planting Instructions:

The seeds of the Russian Olive tree require cold moist stratification, a process that mimics winter conditions to break seed dormancy. You can stratify the seeds by placing them in a moist medium such as seed starting mix in a sealed plastic bag. Store this in a refrigerator at temperatures between 34-41°F (1-5°C) for about 60-90 days. This cold treatment helps simulate natural conditions and prepares the seeds for germination.

After stratification, plant the seeds in pots or directly in well-drained soil outdoors, depending on your climate. The planting medium should be a mixture of sand, loam, and organic matter to mimic the tree's natural growing conditions, which are often found in dry, sandy environments. Sow the seeds at a depth of about 1/4 inch (6 mm), and keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Ensure the location has full sunlight, as Russian olive trees thrive in bright conditions.

Germination can take 1-2 weeks. During this period, maintain a balance of moisture and warmth (around 68-75°F). Once seedlings emerge, continue to nurture them by watering regularly, but avoid overwatering, as these trees are drought-tolerant once established. You can transplant the seedlings to their permanent location after they have developed a sturdy root system, typically after the first growing season.