oliwnikowatych

Oliwnikowatych is the Polish name for the plant family Elaeagnaceae. This family is part of the order Rosales and comprises shrubs and trees. Members of Elaeagnaceae are characterized by their often thorny branches, alternate leaves, and small, fragrant flowers that typically lack petals. A distinguishing feature of this family is the presence of stellate or scaly hairs on their leaves and stems, giving them a silvery or brownish appearance. These scales are crucial for nutrient acquisition from the air, as many species are nitrogen-fixers, thriving in nutrient-poor soils.

The Elaeagnaceae family includes three genera: Elaeagnus (the true olives or silverberries), Hippophae (sea buckthorns), and Shepherdia (buffaloberries). These plants are widely distributed across temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere. They are known for their hardiness, adaptability to harsh conditions, and the production of edible, often tart, fruits. These fruits, particularly those of Elaeagnus and Hippophae, are rich in vitamins and antioxidants and are used in traditional medicine and culinary applications. The family also plays a role in ecological restoration due to their ability to improve soil fertility.