Vascular Plants of the Gila Wilderness

Presented in Association with the
Western New Mexico University Department of Natural Sciences

Elaeagnus angustifolia Linnaeus
(Russian Olive)


Family: Elaeagnaceae

Status: Exotic, Class C Noxious Weed, widespread within the state

Synonyms:
None

Elaeagnus angustifolia has been planted as an ornamental but now has escaped and is spreading mainly in washes and other natural drainages. Invasion by this species appears to be more serious as one travels north in New Mexico. It is easy to recognized by virtue of the grayish foliage and reddish younger twigs with pubescent coatings. It can be mistaked with willows with which it can share habitat, but the overall habit of Elaeagnus angustifolia is shaggier and shrubbier.
Please click on an image for a larger file.



Elaeagnus angustifolia, photo Russ Kleinman, Silva Creek, Silver City, July 8, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, growth habit, photo Russ Kleinman & Richard Felger, Burro Mtns., Mangus Creek, June 18, 2010



Elaeagnus angustifolia, branch and foliage, photo Russ Kleinman, Silva Creek, Silver City, July 8, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, branch and foliage with stipular spine and pubescence, photo Russ Kleinman, Silva Creek, Silver City, July 8, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, fruit, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, October 27, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, winter twig, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, closeup of winter twig, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, winter twig with spines, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, 3x macro of winter twig bud with peltate scales and small, half round leaf scar with one bundle scar, photo Russ Kleinman, Silver City, December 27, 2009



Elaeagnus angustifolia, closeup of flower, photo Russ Kleinman & Bill Norris, Silver City, May 21, 2010



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