This is a small branch of a huge bush growing near our dentists' office.  I love seeing it this time of year:  in bloom.

 

It is Elaeagnus pungens, commonly known as Thorny olive, spiny oleaster, or silverthorn.  I never noticed the thorny aspect, but the undersides of the leaves are definitely silver.  Anyway, we call it Elaeagnus, because it's fun to say.  Here's a pronunciation guide for you:  Say Eely, like a slippery fish, then the name Agnus, like the name of a nun in a movie.  There you have it:  Elaeagnus, and the species name is pungens, which perfectly describes its glorious smell.  I can smell the bush before I ever see it.  

 

When you do smell it, look around for a bush with long, arching branches of evergreen leaves.  Up close you can see that the leaves curl under, and when it's blooming, the flowers are creamy white, and smell divine.   

 

I hope you get to see some on your walks or drives.  

 

 

HAPPY FALL Y'ALL!!!