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Russian Olive vs Golden Willow
Elaeagnus angustifolia
Salix alba vitellina
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.
Golden Willow is an attractive accent tree that's perfectly suited for those moist or wet areas on your property.
This fast growing tree has glossy narrow leaves that turn gold in fall, furrowed brown bark and showy gold branches that especially stand out in the winter.
Golden Willow is commonly used for windbreaks, shelterbelts, and ornamental planting. In addition to looking great, Golden Willow attracts a variety of birds and mammals with its twigs and buds.
All willow are important to native pollinators each spring as they have higher amounts of pollen and nectar early each growing season when other food sources are scarce.
Note: do not plant near buildings or buried services.
Russian Olive Quick Facts
Golden Willow Quick Facts
In row spacing: 1.8 - 2.4 m (6 - 8 ft)
In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)