Garrya Elliptica, commonly known as the silk-tassel bush, is an evergreen shrub with dark green, leathery leaves. In late winter through to early spring, it bears long, greyish-green catkins that can cover the whole shrub. Male and female catkins are on separate plants – the male catkins have pollen while the female plant has little brown berries.

The Garrya genus is native along North America’s western coastlands, from Mexico to Oregon. Garrya Elliptica is the hardiest species and the one best-suited to the British climate. They do not like having their roots disturbed, and will often die if moved too many times.

A commonly grown cultivar is ‘James Roof’ which is a strong, vigorous male variety and has large, leathery leaves with catkins up to 8in (20cm) long.


Growing Requirements

Position
It does well in shade against walls or fences, but is also suitable for the open garden in mild locations.

Soil
Garryas will flourish in most garden soils even dry or infertile soils. It needs well-drained conditions, and can be grown in coastal areas as it is tolerant of salt spray.

Size
Garrya Elliptica is relatively fast growing and it can reach a height of 13ft (4m) with a spread of around 10ft (3m).

Pruning
Plants can be trimmed to shape in late spring, after the catkins have fallen off.

Propagation
The plant can be easily propagated by taking 4inch semi-ripe cuttings in late summer and placing them in a sandy rooting compost.
Plants can also be raised from seed, which will need to be planted in a sandy loam during late autumn or winter, and will require three months of cold stratification for them to germinate. The seedlings will grow rapidly and should be pricked out into individual pots when they are sturdy enough to handle.

Family: Garryaceae
Genus: Garrya