Charlie's Golden

Autumn Olive

Size

Large

Shape

Round, light/golden yellow

Flavor

Sweet - noted as sweeter than most red-fruited autumn olive selections

Texture

Not specifically documented (species is generally juicy)

Ripening window

September (blooms early May)

Best uses

Fresh eating; general autumn olive uses (jam, jelly, sauce) apply

Pollination

Self-fertile per listing, though cross-pollination with a second variety improves yield

Tree size

8-10 ft

Notes

Elaeagnus umbellata. Selected by Hector Black of Hidden Springs Nursery, Tennessee - likely the origin point for several other selections in this collection (Garnet, Ruby, and Jewel appear connected to the same breeding lineage, though not as firmly confirmed as this one). Zones 2-9, hardy to about -35F - comfortably covers zone 8a. Extremely high in lycopene; not bothered by pests/diseases. Easily confused with Amber (also golden/yellow-fruited) - worth double-checking these weren't conflated in your source data. Not currently banned or regulated as invasive in Texas (see Amber's notes for the full regulatory picture) - still produces viable bird-dispersed seed, so harvest fully and watch for volunteers as good practice.