Question: Can you identify this plant/bush for me. It is in my back yard, in Gloucester Massachusetts. Tiny white blossoms that …
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Question
Can you identify this plant/bush for me. It is in my back yard, in Gloucester Massachusetts. Tiny white blossoms that attract bees. Very sharp thorns. small thin almond shaped green leaves. Fred Broer
Answer
Dear Fred, you have photographed Elaeagnus umbellata (autumn-olive). This plant, native to Asia, has become quite widespread in New England. It is utilized by a number of pollinators and produces an edible red fruit. The odor of the flowers is quite strong (if you haven't already smelled them). Best wishes.
