Silverthorn
Elaeagnus pungens
Varieties We Bring In
Last received Aug 25, 2026.
We bring this in seasonally, so what is on the lot changes week to week. A received date shows when it last came in, not that it is here today.
Call (904) 471-0440 to confirm this plant and size before you make the trip.
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
Seasonal care
Good planting window.
Handles summer heat well once established.
Bloom season. Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter.
Care essentials
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.
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.
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.
Similar needs
Firebush
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Florida Privet
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Quailberry
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Spanish Stopper
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Live Oak
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Wall Germander
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, low water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
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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.