Compact Oleaster Hedging – Elaeagnus Ebbingei Compacta

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ Hedging Plants

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’, as the name suggests, is a more compact variety of the popular Elaeagnus ebbingei. This evergreen shrub is prized for its dense growth, glossy green foliage, and manageable size, making it perfect for smaller gardens or tight spaces. With its resilient nature and year-round interest, it’s an excellent choice for creating privacy hedges, windbreaks, or decorative borders. Its small, fragrant flowers in autumn further enhance its appeal, bringing a subtle, pleasant aroma to your outdoor space.

Features of Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’

This variety of Elaeagnus features the same glossy green leaves with silvery undersides as the original, but with a naturally more compact growth habit. Growing at a moderate rate of 20 to 30 centimetres per year, it forms a dense, bushy hedge when planted closely together. Its compact nature reduces the need for frequent pruning, making it easier to maintain. Small, cream-coloured flowers appear in autumn, offering a delightful fragrance.

Why Choose Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ for Hedging?

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ is ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance hedge with year-round coverage and a neat, compact form. Its dense foliage provides excellent privacy, wind protection, and noise reduction, while its hardiness makes it adaptable to various conditions, including coastal and exposed sites.

Benefits for Nature

The autumn flowers of ‘Compacta’ attract pollinators such as bees, and its dense growth offers nesting opportunities for birds. Winter berries provide an additional food source for wildlife, making this plant a valuable addition to biodiversity-friendly gardens.

Landscaping and Design Uses

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ is versatile and can be used for low hedges, privacy screens, or decorative borders. Its smaller size makes it perfect for gardens with limited space or for lining pathways and patios. It can also be planted as a standalone shrub in a mixed border, adding texture and greenery.

Growing Conditions

This plant thrives in well-drained soils, including sandy and chalky types, and tolerates a wide range of pH levels. It prefers full sun to partial shade and is highly resilient to coastal winds and drought, making it suitable for exposed gardens. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its compact shape.

Fun Fact

The compact growth habit of this Elaeagnus variety makes it an excellent choice for urban gardens or areas where larger hedging plants may be too overpowering.

Summary

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ is a dense, evergreen shrub with glossy green foliage and fragrant autumn flowers. Perfect for low hedges, borders, or privacy screens, it offers a manageable size, low maintenance, and excellent resilience to challenging conditions.

Disclaimer

Elaeagnus ebbingei ‘Compacta’ plants may vary in appearance depending on the season and maturity. Regular watering during establishment and occasional pruning will ensure healthy growth and a well-maintained hedge.