2016-07-21_REVISION - M1980002 (2)

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Rangeland -Pasture Recommendations Russian Olive/Elaeagnus angustifolia Identification and Management Russian olive is a non-native deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach 10-25 feet tall. The foliage has an overall silvery appearance. The leaves are arranged alternately, 2-3 inches long and narrow with smooth margins. The upper surface is gray - green while the lower surface and leaf stalks are silvery -gray. The bark is dark reddish - brown in color and usually has 1-2 inch thorns. The twigs also have a silver-gray appearance. The flowers appear between May and June, they are yellow, bell shaped and arranged in clusters. The tree starts to produce fruit at 3 year of age. The fruit is shaped like a small olive and contain a single seed. The seeds are viable for up to 3 years. The Russian olive spreads mostly through seeds but can re -grow from injury. The Russian olive is very adaptable. The seedlings are tolerant of shade and drought conditions. It can thrive in a variety of soil types, including bare mineral substrates. They can grow between sea level and 8,000 feet. The Russian olive originated in southern Europe, central Asia and eastern Asia. They were introduced to the United States in the late nineteenth century as an ornamental shrub or small tree. It has been used extensively in wind breaks and stream bank stabilization. Russian olive will out -compete native vegetation, changes soil characteristics and taxes water reserves. It rapidly takes over lowland fields and often dries up irrigation ditches. Although the fruit is often eaten by birds, studies show there is a greater number of birds in an area dominated by native Cottonwoods. The long thorns the plant produces can make a stand of Russian olive impassable to cows and wildlife. This results in fewer native plants and less animal diversity. The most effective method of control for Russian olive is to prevent its establishment through proper land management. Monitor susceptible areas for new infestations. On the backside of this sheet are Russian olive management recommendations. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the Weld County Public Works Dept., Weed Division at (970) 304- 6496 ext. 3770. Please visit our website www.weldweeds.org.