Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm Mountain time
Russian Olive vs Silver Leaf Willow
Elaeagnus angustifolia
Salix alba sericea
Russian Olive is a medium-sized deciduous tree that has attractive silvery coloured foliage with small yellow flowers that emit a fragrant sweet smell.
It is drought and salt tolerant, and works well as a shelterbelt species. Russian Olive can also be used to combat erosion.
Note: although Russian Olive is planted as an attractive boulevard tree in many northern areas, in warmer areas it can invade watersheds and is considered invasive. Please do some research and plant the right tree in the right place.
Native to North America, Silver Leaf Willow has orangish bark and long, silvery grey leaves. Bees and other insects are attracted to its flowers.
Popular as an ornamental tree for parks, it is also used as a shelterbelt species. It may not be as cold hardy as some of the other willow varieties, however.
Russian Olive Quick Facts
Silver Leaf Willow Quick Facts
In row spacing: 1.8 - 2.4 m (6 - 8 ft)