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nafex - [NAFEX] autumn olive

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  • From: "M Stanton" <6ducks@gmail.com>
  • To: "'North American Fruit Explorers'" <nafex@lists.ibiblio.org>
  • Subject: [NAFEX] autumn olive
  • Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2009 16:53:02 -0400

After seeing the chatter about Autumn Olive, I couldn’t be quiet any longer.  Here in Ohio ( and in much of the east),  the plants are really invasive.  Originally planted for its wildlife value  and nitrogen-fixing capabilities, among other virtues, its use is now highly discouraged in some states. 

 

Both USDA and Ohio State researchers have looked at the fruits’ antioxidant and  lycopene content.  The fruit makes a nice ice-cream syrup and is pretty tasty, especially with a little sugar.  But to encourage its use in many eastern ecosystems is just asking for trouble.  New Mexico is dry enough that escapees may not be a risk, but around here there are other better choices.  How about Cornus mas, for example?  Cornelian cherries can be nice, too.

 

Michele in SW Ohio




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