Common Name: ElaeagnusLatin Name: Elaeagnus pungens ‘Maculata’Soil: Moist but well-drained soil, except shallow chalkPosition: Full sun or partial shadeFlowering period/colour: Winter months/white flowersHardiness: Fully hardyEventual height/spread: 4m x 4mSpecial features: Dark green, shiny leaves with a brilliant golden centre.Also known as ‘Aureovariegata’, this is perhaps the best-known and most reliable variegated form. This vigorous, spreading shrub from Japan is very adaptable, and may be grown on most soils except shallow chalk and is also tolerant of coastal sites. The rich gold variegation provides a striking addition to a border and is useful for lifting a dull corner of the garden. It can be planted as a hedge and clipped twice a year for a formal finish or trained as a wall shrub. Insignificant but strongly scented white flowers are produced over the winter months.