About

Garrya elliptica, the silk tassel bush, is a vigorous, bushy, evergreen shrub or small tree to around 4.5 m in mild positions, with oval, dark-shining-green, wavy-edged leaves felted grey beneath. In January and February, male plants produce extraordinarily long, grey-green, pendant catkins to 20 cm or more � one of the most dramatic winter-flowering shrubs available for a sheltered wall or border.

About the genus

Garrya are vigorous, evergreen, dioecious shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and small, greenish flowers in pendent, catkin-like racemes in late winter and early spring. Male plants produce the showiest catkins; female plants bear long chains of purple-brown fruits after pollination. Excellent for sheltered walls.

Plant details

Suggested usesBorders, hedging, specimen planting.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade.
PruningPrune after flowering or in late winter for shape.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.
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