An invasive, deciduous shrub or small tree, with a dense crown. It commonly bears sharp thorns and flowers that are fragrant and occur in clusters of white to yellow. The leaves are alternate and are typically silvery on the underside. The berries ripen to bright red with silver or brown spots.
In the early 19th century, E. umbellata was purposely introduced to the U.S. and the United Kingdom for shelter belts, erosion control, wasteland reclamation, wildlife habitat, and for gardens as an ornamental. By the late 20th century, the shrub became a noxious weed and invasive species in many U.S. states from the east coast to the central prairies, and spread widely across Europe. Invasive species displace native plants that provide forage and habitat for our native animals and insects.
Least Concern
