Russian Olive or Silverberry (Elaeagnus angustifolia) is a shrub or small tree that is native to central Asia that was brought to Mediterranean regions in the 17th century. From then, it spread all over Europe and the trees' great resistance against environmental pollutions made it well suited for decorative plantings in large cities. We have quite a lot of these small trees here in Berlin, where their delicate smelling blossoms during May and June are a great pleasure for every pedestrian that passes by these plants. The name olive refers to the trees silvery fruits and leaves that look very similar to real olive trees, although this plant does not belong to the Olea family. The wood of this small tree is quite attractive, showing medium to dark brown coloured heartwood against pale yellowish sapwood. Due to its rarity the hard wood is not very known at all, but it works very well and is stable and durable.
