Goumi Berry Seeds - Elaeagnus Multiflora - Delicious, Abundant, and Versatile
Quantity: 6 Seeds
Goumi Berry (Elaeagnus multiflora) is a highly productive fruiting shrub in the Oleaster family, Elaeagnaceae. Native to China, Korea, and Japan, this hardy perennial thrives down to zone 4 and is closely related to Autumn Olive, though many gardeners consider its fruit to be superior. The plants produce an abundance of bright red berries that are both beautiful and delicious. The flavour is unique, often described as a blend of cherry, cranberry, and sweet red currant with just enough tartness to make them exceptionally refreshing. The berries can be eaten fresh, but they're also excellent for juice, jam, jelly, wine, and desserts. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and lycopene, Goumi berries are considered one of the more nutritious fruits that can be grown in temperate climates.
In spring, the shrubs become covered in fragrant cream-coloured flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects. The flowers are highly ornamental and provide an early source of nectar when many other plants have yet to bloom. Like other members of the Elaeagnus genus, Goumi is a nitrogen-fixing plant. This allows it to thrive in poorer soils while simultaneously improving soil fertility for neighbouring plants. Many growers incorporate Goumi into food forests and orchards because of the benefits it provides to surrounding crops.
Goumi shrubs typically grow to about 6-10 feet tall and wide, though they respond very well to pruning and can easily be maintained at a smaller size. The plants are self-fertile and will produce fruit without a second shrub; however, yields are often improved when multiple plants are grown together. Seed-grown plants generally begin producing fruit within 3-5 years. Established plants are drought tolerant, disease resistant, and remarkably easy to grow. Their combination of edible fruit, ornamental value, pollinator support, and soil-building abilities makes them an outstanding addition to almost any garden.
All seeds are organic and open pollinated.
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Growing Instructions
For best results, it’s best to start Goumi Berry seeds outdoors either directly in the ground or in pots about 1-2 weeks before the first frost; we start them here on the farm in mid October. The soil should be made moist, but not damp. Sow the seeds approximately 1/8 inch below the soil surface. Seeds generally emerge the following spring after experiencing a natural winter stratification period.
Alternatively, seeds can be stratified indoors by mixing them with slightly moist sand or peat moss and refrigerating them for approximately 90-120 days before sowing. Once germinated and the first true leaves have formed, transplant seedlings into larger containers containing a good-quality potting soil. Move them to their permanent location once nighttime temperatures are consistently above 10°C; for us at the farm, this is usually around May.