The Gumi is an interesting broadleaf evergreen species beginning to catch on in the United States with some great features for bonsai - beautiful foliage that has silvery spots, flexible new growth that lends well to wiring, and interesting pink to red fruit. The new shoots grow in very light (white or silver with spots) that gradually darkens once hardened off. Our Gumis are propagated from imported bonsai to ensure premium genetic stock for our customers. Grown from cuttings at Kaede Bonsai-en, these trees are well established in 2 1/4" containers.
Common Name(s): Goumi/Gumi, Eleagnus, Silverberry, Spiny Oleaster, Gumiberry
Latin Name: Eleagnus pungens
Type: Broadleaf evergreen (semi-deciduous depending on climate)
Native to: China and Japan
Climate: Hardy in Zones 7-9, with adequate winter protection they can be grown in colder climates.
Care: To let light in, it is advisable to partially to fully defoliate in late spring. You could cut every leaf off or cut each leaf in half, allowing sun to reach the inner portions and encourage backbudding close to the trunk.
Size: 4-6"
Notes: This is a deciduous tree and therefore will not have foliage during the winter.