Elaeagnaceae (oleaster family) Common Names: gumi, cherry elaeagnus Gumi is a rounded shrub that grows to 8 ft (2.4 m) in height. The deciduous leaves are egg-shaped, 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) long, dark green on top and silver with tiny brown scales beneath. Young twigs are reddish and fuzzy. The cream-colored flowers are small and modest, but abundant and fragrant. The showy fruits are scarlet with silver flecks. About 1 in (2.5 cm) long, they dangle deliciously on 1 in (2.5 cm) stems. Gumi is native to China and Japan and has been cultivated for centuries as an ornamental and for its tasty fruit. A mature gumi shrub produces loads of fruit enough for 2 adults and the neighborhood population of birds. Light: Full sun for best results. Moisture: Drought tolerant. Hardiness: USDA Zones 4-9. Propagation: Gumi is drought tolerant, can live in salty or alkaline soils, and rarely has insect or disease problems. Unfortunately, gumi is largely unknown to Americans. In the edible landscape, fast growing gumi shrubs can be pruned to form a dense hedge. As individual specimens or in small groups, gumi's silvery leaves sparkle and flash in the breeze. The succulent fruits are extremely showy and attract many kinds of birds. Gumi could (and should) be cultivated on a commercial scale, like blueberries or mayhaws. Also makes a fantastic bonsai! The red ripe fruits of gumi are juicy and sweet. An absolutely scrumptious jelly can be made from the juice.