Elaeagnus × ebbingei

Elaeagnus × ebbingei is a tough fast-growing evergreen, bred from E. macrophylla and E. pungens. Large leathery dark green leaves with silvery-grey scaled undersides catch the light on windy days. Small cream-white flowers open in autumn, hidden among the foliage but with a surprisingly strong sweet fragrance.

Reaches around 3 to 4m tall and wide, forming a dense screen. Small speckled orange berries may follow the flowers in spring.

Plant in any reasonable soil in full sun or partial shade. Tolerates coastal sites, urban pollution, dry soils and wind. Takes hard clipping, so works beautifully as a hedge, a screen, or an informal backdrop shrub.

A firm favourite for a fast evergreen windbreak, a large hedge, or a structural shrub in a mixed border.