autumn-olive

Autumn-olive Elaeagnus umbellata
Family: Elaeagnaceae (Oleaster)
Branching: Alternate

The bark of this introduced species is one of the most unique there is. It is quite common in the northern states (often becoming an invasive weed) but can be found here and there in southern Ontario. The native Silverberry looks very similar but only has silver scales on its buds and twigs, instead of both silver and brown.

The small dots on the twig are raised and noticeable to the touch.

Lateral bud and very small leaf scar

The thorns which set this species apart from Silverberry.