Cherry silverberry (elaeagnus multiflora)

Cherry silverberry (lat. Elaeagnus multiflora) is native to East Asia. It is a part of Chinese, Japanese and Korean medicine and local gardens as a source of antioxidants with known benefits in blood pressure management. In China, they call it "Gumi". In Britain it is simply the silver cherry, where it is popular in pies. However, the many-flowered plum is primarily of interest to us as a utilitarian shrub, combining both ornamental and utilitarian functions for its berry crop. From a distance, the fruiting branch can resemble a cherry tree. The shrub grows to a height of 3 metres and a width of 2 metres. The reverse of the leaves, which remotely resemble pear leaves, may have a silvery tinge. It prefers a sunny position in which there may be partial part shade. The plant has the advantage of not being soil-hungry and can cope with stony or clay soils. However, it is advisable to provide the young plant in particular with nutrients and plenty of irrigation. Within its species, it is characterised by excellent pest resistance, but it is also notable for its hardiness to -25°C (-25°F). Some sellers claim even more. Amongst growers in recent years, there have also been mentions of its use as a hedging species. The plant tolerates occasional drought and therefore irregular watering. Professional growers from the USA to Europe report no major diseases or pests that would reduce fruit production and the vigour of the plant.

It blooms small, oblong, fragrant, creamy flowers during April to May. The flowers are self-pollinating, from which stone fruits gradually form. They gradually turn red and reach full maturity around July. When ripe, they acquire a sweet and sour taste. After pitting, the fruit can be used in the kitchen to make jams, marmalades, desserts, liqueurs and juices, but it can also be eaten raw. Despite its Asian origins, it is surprising that it is a popular fruit throughout Western Europe, especially in France, Britain and the East Coast of the USA.