In class I asked if you had any experience with this invasive plant and you said no, other than getting jabbed with a thorn! I have lots growing around where I live that I’ve been getting acquainted with, and I’ve been finding lots of interesting research that is being done on it. Here is one that you might find interesting. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313186405_Phytochemical_Constituents_ChEs_and_Urease_Inhibition_Antiproliferative_and_Antioxidant_Properties_of_Elaeagnus_umbellata_Thunb The bushed I have identified as Autumn Olive don’t have thorns (maybe some do and some don’t)? There also is Russian olive that I read does have thorns—is it possible that this is what you have? The plants here don’t appear to be Russian olive. The berries aren’t fully ripe yet, and while astringent, taste a little like pomegranate. I made a tea from the dried leaves, and it has a very pleasant, astringent taste a little like green tea. Both fruit and leaves appear to be quite high in antioxidants—the fruit is high in lycopene. Seems like a good idea to make use of this plant. Here is more information: https://lichenwood.typepad.com/lichenwood_rambles/2012/07/autumn-olive.html

Thank you for the information. Yes, Autumn and Russian Olive are closely related species.