Ruby

Autumn Olive

Size

Very large - described as the largest-fruited of this group

Shape

Round, brilliant/deep red

Flavor

Sweet, very tasty, low astringency

Texture

Sweet and juicy

Ripening window

September (blooms early May)

Best uses

Fresh eating, juice; also dried fruit, pies, preserves per broader red-autumn-olive usage

Pollination

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

Tree size

8-10 ft

Notes

Elaeagnus umbellata. High in vitamins A, C, E, flavonoids, and lycopene; narrow dark-green foliage with a silvery underside. Not bothered by pests/diseases. Likely part of the same Hidden Springs Nursery/Hector Black breeding lineage as Charlie's Golden, Garnet, and Jewel, though not as firmly confirmed as Charlie's Golden's attribution. Zones 3-8, hardy to about -35F - comfortably covers zone 8a. 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.