Elaeagnus philippinensis
LingaroFamily: Elaeagnaceae
Origin: Philippines
Elaeagnus philippinensis (Lingaro) is a native to the Philippines and can be used for bonsai. It is a large shrub, reaching 5-10 ft tall, and requires full sun and moderate water. It is an evergreen shrub that produces white or off-white flowers that bloom in the early- to mid-summer. It also has a added benefit of pale pink edible berries.
The shrub is suitable for xeriscaping, meaning it is drought-tolerant, and can survive in regions with infrequent rain and little irrigation. It is suitable for USDA Zones 9-11, meaning that in colder climates it may need to be grown in a pot.
The fruit of Elaeagnus philippinensis is edible, with a sweet-tart taste. It is known for its high antioxidant content and contains many vitamins and minerals. It is often used in jams, jellies, and pies.
When growing Elaeagnus philippinensis, it is important to keep it properly irrigated, as it does not like to be overly wet or overly dry. In colder climates, make sure to grow it in a pot that can be brought indoors in winter. When pruning the shrub, do so in late autumn. Pinching and trimming of young plants can encourage denser foliage. Proper propagation for Elaeagnus philippinensis is accomplished via semi-hardwood cuttings in the late summer or early autumn.
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