Silk Tassel Bush Garrya elliptica
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the silk tassel bush is an evergreen shrub characterized by its dark green leathery leaves that have a wavy, elliptical shape. The surface of the leaves is glossy, which gives them a slightly shiny appearance, while the underside may have a paler tone with a felt-like texture. One of the most distinctive features of the silk tassel bush is its long, pendulous flower catkins. These tassel-like blooms are particularly prominent in the late winter to early spring. The male and female flowers are usually found on separate plants. The male catkins are longer and more conspicuous, often a silvery-gray or greenish color, adding a unique visual interest to the winter garden. After flowering, female plants produce small, round fruits that turn a dark purple to black when ripe. The overall form of the silk tassel bush can be quite dense and bushy, with branches that bear the flowers typically arching elegantly under the weight of the catkins. The plant expresses a subtle but captivating beauty that is appreciated in ornamental gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Garryaceae
Synonyms
Coast Silk Tassel, Silk Tassel Bush, Wavyleaf Silktassel, California Fever Bush
Common names
Garrya elliptica var. elliptica, Garrya elliptica var. powersiana, Garrya elliptica subsp. elliptica, Garrya elliptica var. mcfarlanei, Garrya elliptica var. fructu-alba.
ToxicityTo humans
Silk tassel is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is limited information about the plant's toxicity, but it is not typically listed on poisonous plant databases. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could occur. If parts of the plant are ingested in significant quantities, it might cause stomach upset or discomfort. Always exercise caution and keep plants out of the reach of children who might ingest them.
To pets
Silk tassel is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. There is little to no information suggesting that this plant poses a significant risk to dogs, cats, or other household animals. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion might lead to gastrointestinal upset or other non-specific symptoms in pets. It is always advisable to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential issues. If you observe any unusual symptoms after ingestion, please consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Dark green
Flower color
Yellow-green
Height
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Spread
8-10 feet (2.4-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
7-9
Native area
California
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Garrya elliptica, commonly known as silk tassel bush, is prized for its distinctive tassel-like flowers, which add visual interest to the garden.
- Drought tolerance: The silk tassel bush is well-adapted to dry conditions, making it a suitable choice for drought-prone regions or water-wise landscaping.
- Wildlife attraction: The flowers and berries of Garrya elliptica can attract birds and beneficial insects to the garden, enhancing biodiversity.
- Privacy screening: With its dense foliage, the silk tassel bush can be used as a natural privacy screen or windbreak in landscaping designs.
- Low maintenance: The silk tassel bush typically requires minimal care once established, making it an ideal plant for low-maintenance gardens.
- Evergreen foliage: As an evergreen shrub, Garrya elliptica provides year-round greenery and structure in the garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Garrya elliptica, commonly known as the silk tassel bush, can be used for ornamental hedging due to its dense foliage and ability to be shaped through pruning.
- The long catkins of the silk tassel bush provide winter interest in gardens, offering aesthetic value during a season when color is often scarce.
- Dried catkins from the silk tassel bush can be incorporated into floral arrangements for a unique textural element.
- The evergreen leaves of the silk tassel bush make a lasting backdrop in bouquets, providing a sturdy and attractive greenery option year-round.
- Wood from the silk tassel bush is appropriate for small woodworking projects, including crafting walking sticks or creating decorative wooden items.
- The dense thickets formed by silk tassel bush can offer shelter and nesting sites for birds and small wildlife.
- Leaves from the silk tassel bush can be used in creating natural dyes, offering a range of colors depending on the mordant used.
- Catkins of the silk tassel bush may be used in educational settings for botany lessons focusing on the morphology and life cycle of plants.
- The plant can act as a natural windbreak when planted in rows, helping to protect more sensitive plants in a garden setting.
- Photographers may utilize the unique appearance of the silk tassel bush catkins to create striking images for botanical or artistic photo projects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Silk tassel bush is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Silk tassel bush is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Garrya elliptica, commonly known as the silk tassel bush, thrives in tough environmental conditions, symbolizing the ability to persist and endure challenges.
- Protection: The thick, leathery leaves of the silk tassel bush provide a protective habitat for wildlife, representing safety and shelter.
- Elegance: With its cascading tassels and graceful appearance, the plant signifies elegance and grace.
- Adaptability: The silk tassel bush's capacity to grow in various soil types and climates stands for adaptability and flexibility in life.
WaterSilk tassel bush prefers to be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. It typically requires watering once every one to two weeks, depending on the climate and indoor conditions. When watering, use enough water to evenly moisten the soil without causing standing water – roughly 1 to 2 gallons for a mature plant, depending on pot size. During the growing season, it may need more frequent watering, while in winter less. Always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering.
LightThe silk tassel bush thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a spot where it receives at least four hours of direct sunlight daily but is shielded from the harshest midday sun. Dappled sunlight under taller trees or an eastern facing location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal for this plant.
TemperatureSilk tassel bush is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures once established. It can survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for silk tassel bush is between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing the plant to extreme cold or frost for prolonged periods.
PruningPrune silk tassel bush mainly to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. You do not need to prune the plant every year; do it as needed to keep the desired size and shape. Remove any crossing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Coast Silk Tassel prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of around 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, sand, and organic compost is ideal for facilitating proper drainage and providing the necessary nutrients. The soil should be rich but not too heavy, allowing for good root growth while preventing water-logging.
RepottingThe Coast Silk Tassel does not require frequent repotting; it should be done every 3 to 5 years. Younger plants may benefit from annual repotting while they are still growing in size, but as the plant matures, repotting can be done less often, and may only be necessary when the plant outgrows its current container or when the soil needs refreshing.
Humidity & MistingThe Coast Silk Tassel plant thrives in average to high humidity levels. While it can tolerate lower humidity typical of indoor environments, it does best when the humidity level is around 40-50%. Ensure that there is good air circulation around the plant to prevent any issues caused by excessive moisture.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright indirect light and ensure good air flow for the Coast Silk Tassel.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, partial shade to full sun for Coast Silk Tassel.
Hardiness zone
7-10 USDA
Life cycleGarrya elliptica, commonly known as coast silk-tassel, begins its life cycle as a seed, which under favorable moisture and temperature conditions will germinate and develop a root system. The seedling grows into a young plant with a single shoot, which will form its initial leaves. As the plant matures, it develops a woody stem and a more extensive foliage canopy, entering its vegetative growth stage where energy is directed towards increasing biomass and size rather than reproduction. Upon reaching maturity, which can take several years, coast silk-tassel flowers, producing long catkin-like inflorescences in winter; these are particularly ornamental in male plants. After pollination, which is predominantly carried out by wind, female plants produce fruit that matures into seed-filled berries, completing the reproductive phase. The plant then enters a period of dormancy during drier seasons or cycles, conserving resources before the start of the next growing cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagating Silk Tassel Bush (Garrya elliptica) is through semi-hardwood cuttings. Typically, the best time to take these cuttings is in late summer. One would cut a length of stem about 6 to 8 inches (15.24 to 20.32 cm) that has matured during the current growing season. The lower leaves of the cutting are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a potting mix that is kept moist but well-draining. To maintain humidity, the pot can be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a greenhouse. Roots usually develop within a few weeks to a few months, after which time the new plants can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before being planted out in the garden.
