Another Perfect Plant: Garrya x issaquahensis
Silk-tassel bush is a shrub you want in your garden for three reasons: its unique flowers are a delight throughout the dull month of February; it makes an attractive evergreen screening plant with its glossy, undulating deep-green leaves; AND it is both shade and drought-resistant!
Garrya fremontii and G. elliptica are both native to coastal California and Southern Oregon. G. elliptica ‘James Roof’ is one of the most commonly-grown cultivars of silk tassel bush. It is v-shaped in habit and produces tassels of soft yellowish catkins, with the main flush of flowers occurring from February to March.
Garrya x issaquahensis is a cross between G. fremontii and G. elliptica. The namesake cultivar ‘Pat Ballard’ was discovered in the garden of Pat Ballard in Issaquah, Washington. It has inflorescences up to 12 inches long, with mauve flowers. ‘Pat Ballard’ is an excellent selection but can be hard to find due to lack of propagation.
Garrya species must have good drainage and are very drought-tolerant once established. They can tolerate shade and full sun, but are sensitive to cold snaps with strong drying winds. When siting a tassel bush avoid areas with heavy wind exposure. At 6-12’ mature height, silk tassel shrubs make an excellent informal hedge, or can also be shaped into a small multi-trunked tree.
Sources:
University of Washington Botanic Gardens
A mature silk tassel bush in its full winter glory.
Velvety racemes of Garrya elliptica ‘James Roof’ shimmer like fine jewelry in the winter sun.