Family: Elaeagnaceae
Author: Thunb.
Bibliography: Fl. Jap.: 67 (1784)
Year: 1784
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Elaeagnus
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. China, S. Korea (incl. Jeju-do), SC. & S. Japan to Taiwan
Description
Broadleaf oleaster, scientifically known as Elaeagnus macrophylla, is a remarkable plant that belongs to the Elaeagnaceae family. Thunberg first described this species in his comprehensive work published in 1784, titled “Flora Japonica.”
This species is indigenous to East Asia, flourishing in Eastern China, Southern Korea (including Jeju-do), and extended regions of South-central and Southern Japan all the way to Taiwan. Its natural habitat provides the broadleaf oleaster with the optimal conditions for growth and reproduction.
Elaeagnus macrophylla is well-regarded for its hardy, evergreen foliage and resilience in various environmental conditions. It is often utilized in landscaping and ecological restoration projects due to its robust nature and ability to thrive in sandy or poor soils where other plants may struggle. The plant’s leaves are a distinguishing feature – broad, leathery, and dark green, which are particularly effective at capturing sunlight and withstanding wind.
The broadleaf oleaster is not only appreciated for its aesthetic and environmental contributions but also for its role in supporting local wildlife. Its flowers are modest yet vital, providing nectar for pollinators. The subsequent fruits serve as a food source for birds and other small animals, further intertwining the plant within its ecosystem.
In summary, Elaeagnus macrophylla, or broadleaf oleaster, is a versatile and resilient species that plays a significant role in its native habitats across Eastern Asia. Its adaptability, aesthetic appeal, and ecological importance make it a valuable subject of study and use in both natural and managed landscapes.
Common Names
Eng: broad-leaved oleaster, broadleaf oleaster, broad-leaved elaeagnus
Fra: oléastre
Deu: großblättrige ölweide
Cym: oleaster llydanddail
En: Broadleaf oleaster, Broad-leaved Oleaster, Broad-leaved Elaeagnus
Zh: 大叶胡颓子
Fr: Oléastre
De: Großblättrige Ölweide
Ja: Maruba-gumi
Ko: 보리밥나무
Zh-tw: 大葉胡頹子
Cy: Oleaster llydanddail
Synonyms
Distribution
- China North-Central (native)
- China Southeast (native)
- Japan (native)
- Korea (native)
- Nansei-shoto (native)
- Taiwan (native)
- Tadzhikistan (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Oct 11, 2022 by Sandrine Durot (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 31, 2020 by Marie (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 13, 2022 by Suzette Suzette (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 19, 2019 by Gaetan Calmes (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 22, 2021 by Olly Rick (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Mar 2, 2022 by jacques maréchal (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 27, 2022 by Jean-Pierre Blumenstein (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 16, 2022 by fredflou (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 31, 2022 by daeltam Mazlam (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 9, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jan 9, 2022 by Fabrice Rubio (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 19, 2021 by Laurent (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 14, 2022 by Nicole Philippe (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 3, 2015 by Tela Botanica − pm3359 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 28, 2020 by Emmanuel Reszka (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by Jolann Pommellec (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 18, 2022 by illah (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 6, 2020 by Luisa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 24, 2022 by Francois Niaux (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 27, 2021 by cscoq (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 23, 2020 by morgane (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 15, 2022 by Andre*.. (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 17, 2021 by Claudine Pignot (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 24, 2022 by Francois Niaux (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 23, 2020 by Laureline Martin (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Feb 18, 2022 by illah (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7293094)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:323750-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Elaeagnus macrophylla Thunb.)
