Species PlantsAutumn Olive

Autumn Olive

Elaeagnus umbellata

CommonPlant
Illustration of Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

Autumn Olive is a nitrogen-fixing shrub introduced from Asia that has become invasive across much of eastern North America. Its speckled silver-red berries are eaten by many birds and mammals who spread the seeds widely. While it provides wildlife food, its aggressive spread disrupts native plant communities and outcompetes native shrubs.

Habitat
Disturbed areas, old fields, roadsides, and forest edges in eastern US
Diet
Berries consumed by many birds and mammals, contributing to invasive spread
How common
Common

Best time to see a Autumn Olive

The best time to see a Autumn Olive is March–July, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 51,678 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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