Elaeagnus Compacta Standard Ball 35 Litre Pot 180-200cm Stem

Elaeagnus × ebbingei 'Compacta' is a compact, evergreen shrub valued for its dense, silvery-green foliage and reliable year-round structure. A more restrained form of the popular Elaeagnus × ebbingei, 'Compacta' builds into a well-branched, rounded bush with slightly wavy leaves that are grey-green on the upper surface and silvery beneath — catching the light beautifully throughout the seasons. In autumn, small, inconspicuous but sweetly fragrant flowers appear tucked among the foliage, adding a delightful sensory element to the garden.

Habit & Appearance

Dense, compact evergreen with attractive silver-green foliage. 'Compacta' forms a tidy, bushy shrub with a naturally neat habit that requires minimal intervention to maintain its shape. The leathery leaves have a distinctive silvery sheen on the underside, creating a subtle two-tone effect as the foliage moves in the breeze. Its compact nature makes it well suited to smaller gardens, mixed borders, or formal and informal planting schemes where space is at a premium. Tough and adaptable, it performs reliably in coastal, urban, and exposed positions.

Growing Conditions

Tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including poor and dry soils. Plant in full sun or partial shade for best results. Elaeagnus × ebbingei 'Compacta' is highly adaptable and will thrive in most well-drained soils, including sandy or poor ground where many other shrubs struggle. It has excellent drought tolerance once established and copes well with salt-laden coastal winds, making it a dependable choice for challenging sites. Fully hardy across the UK, it provides structure and colour even through the coldest months.

Care & Pruning

Low maintenance with occasional trimming to keep a tidy form. Established plants require very little attention beyond an annual trim to maintain shape and encourage dense, compact growth. Prune lightly in late spring or late summer, avoiding cutting back into old, bare wood. As a screening or hedging plant, it responds well to clipping and can be kept to a precise shape if required. Feed with a general balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth, and water regularly in the first season after planting while the root system establishes.