Garrya elliptica 'Evie'

Evie's Silk Tassel Bush

evergreen shrub

8-12' wide x 8'-12' tall

greenish white flower in winter - spring

striking female and male catkins, which appear on separate plants. The flowers are borne in long, silvery-gray catkins, which dangle like white tassels from December through February.  The male catkins are longer and thus more dramatic. They can be 3- to 8 inches in length with cuplike blossoms pale yellow to greenish yellow in color.  The female catkins are pale green and shorter, reaching only 2-3 ½ inches long.  Both sexes must be present for the female plant to bear its grape-like clusters of round berries, which are densely hairy and become velvety smooth with age; prune immediately after flowering

Sun or part shade.  Not fussy about soil type, if well-drained.  Considered a good foliage plant, can be grown as a hedge, moderate irrigation needed.  Prune immediately after flowering.