Plant Guide

Garrya elliptica 'James Roof'

• Common Name

  Coast Silk Tassel
• CA Native

  California Native
• Plant Type

  Shrub
• Size

  12' x 12'
• Flower Color

  Cream
• Bloom Time

  • Spring
• Leaves

  Dark Green Above, Wooly, Light Green Below
• Evergreen

  Evergreen
• Deer Resistant

  Seldom Damaged
• Wildlife Value

  • Attracts Beneficial Insects
  • Bees
  • Bird Habitat
  • Seed and Fruit for Birds
• Growth Rate

  Moderate
• Hardiness

  Hardy
• Adverse Growth Factors

  None
• Special Features

  • Espalier
  • Low Maintenance
  • Specimen
• Water Use

  • Low
  • Moderate
• Soil pH

  6.5-7.5 (neutral)
• Exposure

  • Full Sun
  • Partial Shade
  • Shade
• Soil Type

  Not Particular
• Drainage

  Well Drained
• Description and Cultural Plant Tips

  The Coast Silk Tassel is named for the beautiful,  cream colored 3" - 12" long catkins that dangle from the ends of the branchs from December through February. The male form is the more dramatic in size of the tassels. This large shub looks good as a specimen planting or can also be used as an informal  hedge or screen. The male variety of 'James Roof' has unusually long and dramatic catkins.

  Plant slightly above soil grade in well-drained soil. This plant is not fussy about soil type as long as drainage is good.  Water once or twice a week until established. Can be planted in full sun along coastal Marin but light afternoon shade is needed in the hotter parts of Marin.  Plant in a sheltered location if you live in a windy or frost prone part of Marin. Prune immediately after flowering as next years flowers are produced on new branchlets.

  The fruit is eaten by birds.

  Has no serious pests or diseases as long as the drainage is good.

• Master Gardener Comments

  N / A
• Varietals

  G. fremontii - 10' x 10', yellowish-green leaves and yellowish or purple catkins