Elaeagnus pungens Variegata

The Elaeagnus pungens Maculata is a beautiful bush with arched branches and evergreen foliage that is green with dark yellow spots in the centre. It is ideal for hedges and windbreaks.

Originating from China and Japan, this hardy eleagnus can reach a height of 3-4m (9.8 - 13.1ft) and has a rounded and well-branched habit. The young branches, of orange-brown colour, bear short thorns here and there. Its evergreen leaves, measuring 4 to 10cm (1.6 - 3.9in) in length, are leathery, alternate, and lanceolate  with undulate edges, shiny green with dark yellow spots in the centre. The nectar-rich silvery-white pendant flowers are very discreet and slightly fragrant, blooming in autumn. They are followed by fruits, 1cm (0.4in) long, initially brown and then turning red when ripe.

Easy to grow, Elaeagnus pungens Maculata adapts well to well-drained, sandy, even dry and poor soils without chalk, in sunny or semi-shaded locations. To promote branching in the early years, prune the shoots by one-third of their length then prune to shape every spring.

Elaeagnus pungens Maculata, whether used as a hedge or in a bed, creates a magnificent contrast when combined with Escallonia, Olearia, Tamaris, and Griselinia. It is completely unaffected by pollution, making it an excellent hedge for sheltered urban gardens. It captures nitrogen from the atmosphere through its leaves and redirects it to its roots.