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Garrya elliptica

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description Garrya elliptica Overview

Garrya elliptica, the silk tassel bush or wavy leaf silktassel, is an evergreen shrub in the Garryaceae family native to coastal California and southern Oregon. It is grown primarily for its long, pendulous catkins—silvery-gray on male plants—which can reach 20–30 cm and are displayed in late winter. The plant is dioecious, and male plants produce the most ornamental catkins. It grows to 2–4 meters, tolerates dry conditions, and is valued as a wall plant or screening shrub in maritime and Mediterranean climates.

help Garrya elliptica FAQ

When does Garrya elliptica produce its catkins?

Garrya elliptica produces its long, pendulous silvery-gray catkins in late winter to early spring, typically from January through March depending on the climate. Male plants produce the showiest catkins, which can reach 20–30 cm in length.

Do I need a male Garrya elliptica plant to get catkins?

Garrya elliptica is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants, and the long ornamental catkins are produced by male plants. For this reason, most cultivated varieties sold—such as 'James Roof'—are male clones selected for their dramatic tassels.

Does Garrya elliptica grow well in shade?

Yes, Garrya elliptica tolerates partial shade and is often grown against north- or east-facing walls in the UK and the Pacific Northwest. It is valued as one of the few evergreen shrubs that provide winter interest through its catkins in shaded positions.

Where is Garrya elliptica native to?

Garrya elliptica is native to coastal California and southern Oregon, where it grows in dry woodlands and chaparral. It is a member of the small Garryaceae family and thrives in well-drained soils with minimal summer water.

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