Species PlantsRussian Olive

Russian Olive

Elaeagnus angustifolia

CommonPlant
Illustration of Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)

Russian Olive is an introduced tree from Eurasia that has become invasive along rivers and stream corridors in the arid West, forming dense thickets that displace native cottonwood-willow gallery forests. Despite its invasive status, its silver-gray fruits are consumed by many birds and mammals. Management efforts are underway to remove it from riparian corridors.

Habitat
Riparian corridors and disturbed areas in the arid West
Diet
Fruits eaten by many bird species; invasive thickets displace native riparian habitat
How common
Common

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