$20 · Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata)

The Autumn Olive is larger-growing relative of the Goumie shrub that produces smaller fruit in clusters, quite late in the fall (Nov). Otherwise many of their features are similar. Like the Goumie this tree is droubt tolerant and nitrogen fixing. It's a nice refreshing snack fruit, and also makes great fruit leather (see photo). But in busy years I let the Northern Fickers, Robins, and other native birds clean up for me. This tree is awesome for producing quality fruit in more dry and difficult areas, but if you need fruit that taste like white sugar, stick to table grapes. The Autumn Olive has an astringent zing (especially when harvested too early) that many frugavores love, but that some do not :) Plant are well rooted into #2 pots