Hairy oleaster
Elaeagnus courtoisii
Family: Elaeagnaceae
What it is like
A shrub. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 2 m high. It has a dense covering of yellow hairs. The leaves are oblong and 4-9 cm long by 1-4 cm wide. It narrow to an abrupt tip and the base is rounded. The flowers are small and pale yellow. They occur singly in the axils of leaves. The fruit is fleshy and red. It is oblong and 1 cm long. It ahs silver scales.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It is native to central and eastern China. It grows in open areas between 300-1,100 m above sea level.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, China
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten fresh and also used for wine.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
In China plants flower in February and March and fruit April to May.