Goumi

Elaeagnus multiflora

Also known as Cherry Silverberry, this deciduous shrub is native to China, Korea and Japan, and has become something of a holy grail for permaculture plant collectors, ticking both the nitrogen fixing and the fruit  producing boxes, although it has a multitude of other uses too.

Unshowy small yellow flowers are produced in spring, which pack a good fragrant punch reminiscent of jasmine, which will waft across your garden or food forest. These are followed in summer by red, juicy, edible fruit about the size of a large blueberry. These will be very astringent if attempted underripe, but sweeten with the season. They can also be left on the bush to dry up and become wrinkled like raisins – unless the birds get there first! Harvested fruit can be eaten raw or cooked, or made into preserves, pies, beverages etc.

The fruits are very rich in vitamins and minerals, in particular vitamins A, C and E, antioxidants including lycopene, flavanoids and other bio-active compounds. Unusually for fruits they are also a fairly good source of essential fatty acids, and are being investigated for their cancer fighting properties. The leaves have traditionally been used medicinally in the treatment of coughs, and the root as an astringent.

Goumi are not legumes but are actinorhizal, growing in symbiosis with nitrogen fixing Frankia bacteria in the soil. They therefore do not require rich soil and are easy to grow in  average, well-drained soils with medium moisture, in full sun to part shade. They can also make nitrogen available to other plants, so are useful pioneer and companion plants. Established plants have good drought tolerance and are also very wind resistant, good for stabilising banks, and tolerant of atmospheric pollution. Hardy to -20° C.

Mature height can vary from 2 – 8m. Self fertile.

Certified organic plant in PB3, approx. 1.2m.

Flower photos: Kahikatea Farm