Russian olive | The Morton Arboretum

Russian olive is an exotic weed in Illinois. The Illinois Exotic Weed Act prohibits the sale or distribution of this plant in Illinois. Russian olive prefers moist habitats, but is tolerant of sand, salt, and drought. It commonly grows in disturbed areas and wetlands, although it can thrive in most habitats. The fruit is often consumed by animals that distribute the seed in the environment. It was introduced from Europe and Asia for landscapes to stabilize soil and act as a windbreak. Today it is found throughout the United States. Due to the deep roots and hardiness of Russian olive, it tends to establish in new areas and rapidly overcrowd. This deprives native species of light, nutrients, and space.

Several Midwestern states legislate against Russian olive. As an alternative, the shrub species American silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata) is native to some northern states in the United States. It has similar properties to Russian olive in its appearance and low maintenance needs, but will grow shorter. There are a number of native and non-native species that could be used in place of Russian olive. More desirable species may be found using the Search Trees and Plants page of the Arboretum website. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on this species, and make sure that this plant is suitable for its habitat by checking its attributes at mortonarb.org or plants.usda.gov.

More Information

Size and Method of Spreading

The medium-sizedtree grows up to 30 feet in height and has a canopy width of 10 to 20 feet.

Bark Color and Texture

The bark of Russian olive is gray brown and is smooth when young. It separates into long, peeling strips when mature. The lateral branches are light gray with thin thorns about 2 inches long.

Leaf Description

The alternate, simple leaves are pale green with silvery undersides, 1 to 3 inches long, and ½ inch wide. Leaves are lanceolate shaped with entire leaf margins.

Flower Description

The sweet-smelling flowers are about 3/8 to 5/8 inch long, alternate, and appear in groups of one to three in the leaf axils. They are bell shaped with four triangular petals forming in a tightly packed shape. The flowers of Russian olive typically range in color from white to a deep yellow. Flowers occur from mid- to late spring.

Fruit Description

The dry fruit (achene) is oval shaped and covered by a fleshy layer giving it a drupe-like appearance, similar to a cherry. It begins with a pale gray color due to the silvery scales, but turns reddish-brown as it matures.