Elaeagnus Ebbingei Compacta 3 Litre Pot

Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' (Compact Silverberry) – A Hardy, Evergreen Shrub with Fragrant Flowers and Attractive Foliage

Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta', commonly known as Compact Silverberry, is a versatile, evergreen shrub that offers year-round interest with its silvery-green foliage and fragrant flowers. This compact variety reaches a height of 2.5 meters, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, borders, or hedging. Known for its hardiness, adaptability, and low-maintenance nature, 'Compacta' is perfect for gardeners looking for an attractive, easy-to-grow shrub that thrives in a range of conditions.

Why Grow Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' (Compact Silverberry)?

Year-Round Interest – Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' offers a lovely silvery-green hue to the garden throughout the year. Its dense, leathery leaves have a striking silvery underside, adding texture and contrast to the landscape.

Fragrant Flowers – In late autumn to early winter, the shrub produces small, creamy-white, fragrant flowers. These flowers are a great source of nectar for pollinators, including bees, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife-friendly garden.

Compact Growth – With an Ultimate Height of 1 - 1.5m and Spread of 0.5 - 1m, 'Compacta' has a neat, dense habit, making it ideal for smaller gardens or as a low hedge. It works well as a foundation plant, in containers, or as a border plant.

Hardy & Low Maintenance – This shrub is incredibly hardy and thrives in a variety of growing conditions, from full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners.

Attractive Foliage – The attractive silvery-green foliage creates an elegant backdrop for other plants in the garden, while the striking underside of the leaves provides added visual interest.

Planting & Care Guide

Position – Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It grows best in sunny locations where its leaves’ silvery colour can shine, though it will still do well in light shade.

Soil – Prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or slightly alkaline soil. It can tolerate poor, dry soils once established.

Watering – Water regularly during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, 'Compacta' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, making it perfect for water-wise gardens.

Maintenance:

• Pruning – Prune after flowering to shape the plant and maintain a dense form. Remove any dead or damaged growth to encourage healthy new growth.
• Mulching – Apply mulch around the base in spring to retain moisture and help suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing – Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

Perfect Plant Combinations

Elaeagnus ebbingei 'Compacta' pairs well with other drought-tolerant, evergreen plants like Lavender, Rosemary, or Santolina, which can enhance the silvery tones of the foliage. It also works beautifully with ornamental grasses like Pennisetum or Miscanthus for a soft, flowing contrast. For a more formal or structured look, combine it with other compact shrubs like Boxwood, Euonymus, or Hebe. The silvery-green foliage also pairs well with plants that have dark, glossy leaves, such as Pieris or Mahonia, creating a striking visual contrast. Its fragrant winter flowers make it a perfect addition to a wildlife garden or a space designed to provide year-round interest. 'Compacta' is also ideal for use in hedges or borders, adding structure and beauty while requiring minimal care