Russian Olive

Description:

RUSSIAN - OLIVE - Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster family)

A fast-growing tree of moderate size, normally reaching heights from 10 to 25 feet. Trunks and branches are armed with 1-2-inch woody thorns. Leaves are narrow, 2 to 3 inches long, and covered with minute scales which give the foliage a distinctive silvery appearance. Scales are usually more abundant on the underside of leaves. Flowers are yellow, and arranged in clusters. Fruits, shaped like small olives, are silvery when first formed, but turn tan to brown at maturity.

Introduced from Europe, Russian-olive is promoted as a desirable ornamental shade tree, and is recognized as a source of food and protection for wildlife. However, when allowed to invade low-lying pastures, meadows, or waterways it can become a serious weed problem.

 (Courtesy of Weeds of the West)