http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaeagnus

Here is a link that might be useful: Elaeagnus

Not sure why someone would plant this. It is branching out like crazy crowding out a plum tree. I've been pruning it, but I'm not sure it is edible or which species of elaeagnus it is if that's what it is.

We moved into a new house last year. The landscaper had planted something like ten of those in my flower bed in front of the windows. I couldn't get them out of the garden fast enough. They don't stay close enough to size or shape for very long. The roots are supposed to be aggressive also.

Well, I love mine, but I have acreage and planted them in a place where size is not a problem. The cardinals nest in them, and twice a year they have the most aromatic blooms.

Elaeagnus is on the invasive plant list in many states.....Texas, for example. It's a good idea to do a quick search to see if this plant is on that list in your state.

If you've ever helped conduct a parkland cleanup of invasive thugs in your community, you'd never want to contribute to the problem. My suggestion is that you remove the plants, not only for their potential to cause ecological damage but because they are so unsuitable as a landscape ornamental.

Mine are 22 years old, and I am not so inclined to remove them.