* Coast Silktassel – Garrya elliptica (GARE-ree-uh ee-LIP-tih-kuh)

Family: Garryaceae (Garrya Family)

Native to: Ventura Co. N. to OR; sea cliffs, sand dunes, dry slopes and ridges to 2000', mostly in

chaparral or foothill-pine woodland.

Growth characteristics: woody shrub/small tree mature height: 8-15 ft. mature width: 5-10 ft. Dense, evergreen shrub or small tree with leathery, dark green leaves. Leaves have wavy edges.

Bark is dark. Moderate growth speed.

Blooms/fruits: Blooms in winter or early spring (Jan.-Mar.). Plants are dioecious (separate male &

female plants) and male plants have showier flowers. Many small, white flowers on long drooping

flowering stems – truly a spectacular show at a time when not much is blooming!

Uses in the garden: Most often used as a showy specimen plant – truly a show-stopper. Nice as an

informal or formal (clipped) hedge, screen or included in a hedgerow. Can even be espaliered along

a wall or fence. Nice also in coastal shrub border; not as good in hot inland gardens. Foliage perfect

for background plant. Cultivar ‘Evie’ is more compact; ‘James Roof’ is a dependable bloomer in

coastal gardens.

Sensible substitute for: Non-native shrubs & small trees.

Attracts: Provides cover & nesting sites for birds.

Requirements:

Element Requirement

Sun Full sun (cooler gardens) to full shade; very adaptable

Soil Most soil types including all but heavy clays; pH: any local (6.0-8.0)

Water Best with occasional summer water (Zone 2), although establish plants drought tol.

Fertilizer Quite adaptable; none needed but will take light fertilizer.

Other Avoid sites with either cold winds or hot-dry winds.

Management: Prune to thin, shape right after blooming. May be severely pruned to rejuvenate.

Propagation: from seed: cold treatment; may be slow by cuttings: hardwood, semi-softwood

Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 3, 8, 11, 13, 14, 20, 24 2/16/11 © Project SOUND