Elaeagnus

Help me identify this plant. Large shrub / small tree in a new client's garden. Has very large thorns too !

#id #plantident #help

Any idea what this plant is........anyone ?

Hi. Leaf shape makes me think Eleagnus

Thanks @lawnandborder . Thats the direction my searching has taken me too. I havent found any reference to the massive thorns though !

I think there's about 35 varieties in the uk. Only some of them have thorns. Word of warning - if using hedge trimmers to shape it, wear eye protection. The fine dust from the underside of the leaves can cause severe eye irritation. I know. I had to drive home with one eye closed and the other one streaming once after pruning Eleagnus. Very nasty. Eye came up like conjunctivitis!!!

Thanks for the warning @lawnandborder I gave it a good prune back with secateurs fortunately ☺

It's Eleagnus ebbingei. And yes, @lawnandborder that fine dust is really irritating!

Thanks @mikethegardener I'll take care with it. Toxic dust and those huge thorns don't make it a friendly plant!