Silk Tassel Bush - Garrya elliptica

Silk Tassel Bush - Garrya elliptica

Garrya elliptica is a refined evergreen shrub delivering rare winter spectacle through its sweeping silver-grey tassels, a feature few plants can rival in the cooler months. Dense, leathery foliage ensures year-round structure and screening, while its tolerance of exposed and coastal conditions makes it a dependable choice for demanding sites.

Why Silk Tassel Bush

Distinctive winter display: Long, pendulous silver-grey catkins provide dramatic cold-season interest when most plants offer little.
Evergreen structure: Dark, leathery foliage maintains form and presence across all seasons.
Coastal and wind tolerance: Performs reliably in exposed, seaside, and high-wind positions where lesser species struggle.
Soil adaptability: Establishes across a broad range of soil types with minimal intervention.
Low-maintenance once established: Requires no routine feeding or irrigation management under normal conditions.

Ideal Applications

Specimen planting: A compelling focal point during winter, particularly male selections with the longest tassel display.
Privacy screening and hedging: Dense evergreen growth provides effective year-round screening and wind protection.
Coastal and exposed projects: A proven performer in harsh maritime and elevated positions.
Architectural and contemporary landscapes: Bold texture and refined form integrate well into structured, modern design schemes.

Specimen & Installation

Spacing (screening/hedge): 1.5–2.5m
Spacing (feature/avenue): 3–5m
Planting Season: Autumn to early spring
Soil & Drainage: Well-drained soils; tolerates poor, dry, and coastal soils; avoid waterlogged conditions
Establishment Care: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then reduce watering as the plant is drought tolerant once established. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Details

Height: 3–5m
Width: 2–4m
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage: Evergreen
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Native to: Western United States (California, Oregon)
Flower Colour: Cream to grey-green catkins