south into northeastern Australia, while E. commutata is native to North America, and Elaeagnus philippinensis is native to the Philippines. One of the Asian species, E. angustifolia, may also be native in southeasternmost Europe, though it may instead be an early human introduction there. Also, several Asiatic species of Elaeagnus have become established as introduced species in North America, with some of these species being considered invasive, or even designated as noxious, in portions of the United States. Ecology Elaeagnus species are used as food plants by the larvae of some Lepidoptera species including Coleophora elaeagnisella and the Gothic moths. The thorny shrubs can also provide good nesting sites for birds. Nitrogen fixation Many Elaeagnus species harbor nitrogen-fixing organisms in their roots, so are able to grow well in low-nitrogen soils. This ability results in multiple ecological consequences where these Elaeagnus species are present. They can become invasive in many locations where they are established as exotic species. Two species (E. pungens and E. umbellata) are currently rated as category II noxious, invasive species in many world regions and by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council. Cultivation Elaeagnus species are widely cultivated for their showy, often variegated, foliage, and numerous cultivars and hybrids have been developed. The fruit is acid and somewhat astringent. It makes good tarts. Notable species and hybrids in cultivation include:- Elaeagnus angustifolia Elaeagnus commutata Elaeagnus macrophylla Elaeagnus multiflora Elaeagnus pungens Elaeagnus × reflexa Elaeagnus × submacrophylla (syn. E. × ebbingei) Elaeagnus umbellata The hybrid Elaeagnus × submacrophylla and the cultivar 'Gilt Edge' have gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. References External links eFloras Chinese Plant list: Elaeagnus Rosales genera