Family: Elaegnaceae, Oleaster view all from this family

Description Introduced. Asian deciduous shrub bearing masses of berries in fall.
Height: to 20' (6 m).
Leaves: 1-3 1/2" (2.5-9 cm) long; alternate; ovate to lanceolate; untoothed; shiny green above, silvery below.
Flowers: 3/4" (2 cm) long; tubular; in small drooping clusters; fragrant; creamy white.
Fruit: 1/4" (6 mm) diameter berry; brownish to red; abundant.

Habitat Disturbed habitats, such as roadsides and fields; open woods and woodland edges.

Range Native of China, Japan, and Korea; naturalized in the eastern United States from Maine to Florida and west to Nebraska and Louisiana.

Discussion In the United States, Autumn Olive has been heavily planted in disturbed habitats for revegetation purposes and along roadsides and other areas for ornament. Its berries are readily consumed by wildlife, which has increased its popularity in gardens and planting projects. The birds and mammals that consume the berries then deposit them in natural habitats, contributing to the spread of this plant throughout the East. It is widely considered a noxious or invasive weed, and many agencies and organizations have implemented programs to eradicate it in native habitats and to prevent further plantings.