Family: Garryaceae
Common Name: Silk Tassel Bush

Native to western North America, this small genus of winter-flowering shrubs is grown mainly for the unusual and very attractive catkins on the male plant. The female flower catkins are short and open and not nearly as striking, so it is worth seeking out a male plant. The long, pendulous catkins are light green and silky and last for several weeks in winter. Garrya is an ideal background or screen plant as it is quite a tall shrub. It also makes an interesting espalier when trained to show off its silky tas­sels. Garrya should be planted where its winter display can be a feature.

Species

G. elliptica is a shrub or small tree which may reach 5-6 m (16-20 ft), but is more often only 3-4 m (10-13 ft) tall. The leaves are elliptic to oval-shaped and around 7 cm (3 in) long; the silvery green catkins of the male plant grow to 30 cm (12 in). The female plant has long clusters of black fruits in autumn.

Cultivation

Garryas will grow in any soil and do not require much sun. Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings in summer, rooting them in a heated propagating case.

Climate

Zone 8.