Which Oleaster do you need?
- SALE
Oleaster HedgeElaeagnus x ebbingeiPlain Oleaster grows 30–60cm a year with dense grey-green leaves, giving a screen that copes with wind, salt and dry soil.Colourful FoliageFast 30-60cm per yearPot Grown - Oleaster Gilt Edge HedgeElaeagnus x ebbingei 'Gilt Edge'Oleaster Gilt Edge has dark green leaves edged with gold. It grows more slowly, so it suits a decorative medium-height hedge.Colourful FoliageMedium 20-40cm per yearPot Grown
Oleaster or Griselinia?
| Compare | Oleaster | Griselinia |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves | Leathery grey-green, silver underneath | Glossy, bright apple-green |
| Flowers | Small, sweetly scented, in autumn | Insignificant |
| Coastal and wind | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cold inland sites | Fully hardy | Can be damaged in hard frosts |
| Look | Dense and slightly informal | Smooth and neat |
| Best for | Exposed coastal and inland boundaries | Sheltered seaside gardens |
Gwynne's Grower's Tip
Oleaster is the hedge I suggest when Laurel or Griselinia would struggle: a windy hilltop, a seafront garden or a dry, thin soil. On a really exposed site, plant 40–60cm plants rather than bigger ones. They root in faster and are less likely to be rocked by the wind in their first winter.
It can look a little loose when young, so give it a light trim in spring and late summer for the first few years to thicken it from the base. For colour, Gilt Edge is lovely, but it is slower, so buy it for looks rather than quick privacy.
Oleaster buying questions
01Is Oleaster the same as Elaeagnus ebbingei?
Yes. The Oleaster sold for hedging is Elaeagnus × ebbingei, a hybrid evergreen. It is a different plant from the deciduous, silver-leaved Elaeagnus angustifolia, which is sometimes also called Oleaster or Russian olive.
02Is Oleaster fast growing?
Plain Oleaster is fairly fast, typically 30–60cm a year once established. Gilt Edge is slower, at around 20–40cm a year.
03How tall does an Oleaster hedge grow?
As a hedge it is usually kept at 1.5–3m, and it can be trimmed lower. Left alone it can reach 4–5m, so it also works as a tall screen.
Growing Advice for Oleaster Hedge Plants
What is Oleaster Hedging?
Oleaster Hedging, a popular choice among gardeners, includes a variety of hedging plants known for their versatility and benefits. These oleaster hedging plants thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, making them a versatile addition to any landscape. This hardy plant can withstand harsh winds and salty air, making it particularly well-suited for coastal environments. The low-maintenance nature of Oleaster Hedging means it requires minimal pruning, allowing it to maintain its neat and attractive appearance with little effort. In addition, its dense foliage offers excellent privacy and wind protection, making it an ideal choice for creating natural barriers in gardens and commercial properties alike. | |