Seven of the fifteen known garrya species are native to the Pacific Coast.
Evergreen Garrya elliptica, Coast silk-tassel, is the one that has been in the trade the longest and is still the species commonly planted in gardens and parks.
It grows wild on the slopes of coastal ranges from the Rogue River in Oregon south to northern Los Angeles County.
Common Growth And Foliage
Under some conditions, this choice shrub will form a small tree 30’ feet tall, but it is generally a rather dense bush of 5’ to 15’ feet, with a spread that may also reach 15’ feet.
The handsome leaves, thick and oval-shaped, are shiny dark green on top and pale beneath with gray felt.
About 3” inches long, they are stiff, slightly recurved, and prettily waved.
New branches are brown and shining, while old bark is rough.
Difference Between Male And Female Garrya Plants
The tiny flowers are carried on catkins. Then, the Garrya elliptica reaches its strikingly ornamental stage, for the tassels are long and graceful in pastel yellows and greens.
This period of elegance lasts from December into early spring.
If possible, select a male (staminate) plant, for they are considered the more desirable even though their span of usefulness to those who cut the catkins is shorter than the female (pistillate) plant.
On the male plant, the catkins hang in clusters of up to 10, are incredibly slender and floating, and are sometimes 1’ foot long.
The catkins on the female plant conic in clusters up to 6, the longest rarely being over 6” inches. They are less graceful and on the plump side.
Proper Growing Conditions For Garrya Elliptica
In the Northwest, Garrya elliptica is best placed against a sheltered wall facing south or west.
In California, in areas of fog, give it full sun, and in Southern California, part shade.
It likes light, porous soil and must have good drainage.
Under these conditions, Garrya forms many branches from the base and can be pruned into any shape.
With watering, it will become very tall and will have large leaves.