Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata'
Golden Elaegnus
- Family
- Elaeagnaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 feet
- Width
- 6 to 10 feet
- Flower color
- Small, silvery white, and highly fragrant
- Foliage color
- Golden yellow centers with green margins
- Bloom time
- Fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Low to moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; can be pruned to shape in late winter
- Growing zone
- USDA Zones 7 to 9
- Wildlife
- Bees and other pollinators
About this plant
Elaeagnus pungens 'Maculata' is an evergreen shrub known for its bold foliage and seasonal fragrance. Its large, leathery leaves feature a rich golden-yellow center surrounded by deep green margins, that brings brightness to the garden throughout the year. In autumn, it produces small, silvery-white flowers that are not immediately noticeable but emit a sweet, jasmine-like fragrance, adding sensory appeal to the landscape.
Originating from East Asia, Elaeagnus pungens has been cultivated for its hardiness and ornamental qualities, and the 'Maculata' cultivar is particularly prized for its colorful foliage. It is an excellent choice for hedges, mixed borders, or as a stand-alone accent shrub, offering visual interest and adaptability to various garden settings. Its foliage and fragrant blooms make it a valuable addition to both formal and informal designs.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Hedging & Privacy · Fragrant Gardens · Waterwise Gardens
Companion plants
Daphne · Pearlbush · Bluestars · Rock cress · Pampas Grass · Pasque flower
Design tip
Golden-centered foliage gives this large evergreen a strong presence throughout the year. Its tiny autumn flowers are easy to overlook visually, so placing it near a walkway allows their unexpected jasmine-like fragrance to become part of the seasonal display.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Washington Park Arboretum.
