Russian Olive

Elaeagnus angustifolia, Elaeagnaceae

Zones

2–7

Layer

Understory

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

WindbreakNitrogen Fixer

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (optimal)

Water

LowLow

Soil pH

5.5 – 8.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

AsparagusAsparagus officinalis

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

Alsike CloverTrifolium hybridum

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

AlmondPrunus dulcis

Nitrogen FixationWind Protection

ApricotPrunus armeniaca

Nitrogen FixationWind ProtectionShade Provision

Antagonistic Plants

Sea BuckthornHippophae rhamnoides

Both are aggressive nitrogen-fixing shrubs that compete intensely for space and resources in similar habitats

Black AlderAlnus glutinosa

Russian olive can suppress alder growth through root competition and potential allelopathic effects

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationFoodWind Protection

Edible Parts

Fruit

Common Questions

What zones does Russian Olive grow in?

Russian Olive grows in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 7.

Is Russian Olive a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Russian Olive is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Russian Olive?

Good companions for Russian Olive include Asparagus, Alsike Clover, Almond, Apricot.

Design guilds with Russian Olive and see companion relationships visually.

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