Ezüstfa

Ezüstfa is the Hungarian name for Elaeagnus, a genus of flowering plants in the family Elaeagnaceae. These are typically shrubs or small trees, often thorny, with distinctive silvery or brownish scales covering their leaves and young stems, which gives them their common name. The genus is native to temperate and tropical regions of Asia, Europe, and North America.

Members of the Elaeagnus genus are known for their hardiness and adaptability, often thriving in poor soils and exposed conditions. They are frequently used in landscaping for their ornamental foliage, which can range from green to silver and variegated patterns, and for their fragrant flowers, which typically appear in autumn or spring. The flowers are small and often inconspicuous but can be intensely aromatic, attracting pollinators.

Many species of Elaeagnus produce edible fruits, often called "silverberries" or "oleaster berries." These fruits are typically tart and can be eaten fresh, or more commonly used in jams, jellies, and preserves. Some species, like Elaeagnus angustifolia, are particularly known for their fruit production.

However, some Elaeagnus species can be invasive in certain regions outside their native range, outcompeting native vegetation due to their rapid growth and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. Careful consideration is therefore advised when planting these species in areas where they could potentially spread uncontrollably. The Hungarian name "ezüstfa" directly translates to "silver tree," referencing the characteristic silvery appearance of many species in the genus.