Shrub
Silverthorn
Elaeagnus pungens
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
StandardElaeagnus pungensOlive MartiniElaeagnus pungensX Ebb Gilt EdgeElaeagnus ebbingeiMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
3 galFrom$16.95
#5MonroviaFrom$79.95
7 galFrom$36.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 15.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun
WaterLow
Mature size6-15 feet × 10-15 feet
About Silverthorn
Silverthorn (Elaeagnus pungens) is a dense, thorny evergreen shrub with silvery foliage and powerfully fragrant fall flowers, well adapted to NE Florida zone 9b conditions including drought, salt, and a range of soils. However, UF/IFAS and FLEPPC classify it as a Category II invasive exotic; it escapes cultivation and displaces native vegetation. Florida-native alternatives are strongly recommended for new plantings. Starting at $16.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Fall
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Fast
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Clay, Alkaline, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
Light
Silverthorn grows in full sun to part shade and tolerates a wide range of light conditions. In NE Florida it establishes readily and can spread into natural areas; the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council lists it as a Category II invasive — consider Florida-native alternatives.
Water
Silverthorn is highly drought tolerant once established and requires little to no supplemental irrigation in NE Florida. Avoid overwatering; it thrives in well-drained to dry soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Extremely adaptable to sandy, loamy, or clay soils across a wide pH range; little soil amendment is needed. Minimal fertilization is required; excess fertility promotes rank growth. Note: UF/IFAS and FLEPPC classify this plant as a Category II invasive in Florida.
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Wall Germander
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Common questions
Is Silverthorn a good plant for St. Augustine?
Silverthorn is a shrub for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 6-15 feet × 10-15 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.