Garrya elliptica 'James Roof'
silk-tassel bush
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: December to February
- Hardiness: frost hardy (needs winter protection in cold areas)
Long, silvery catkins up to 20cm long shine out among glossy, wavy-edged, dark green leaves throughout winter. The silken tassels of this upright, evergreen shrub make a stunning feature in the winter garden. Try it towards the back of a sunny shrub border, against a wall or as a windbreak in coastal areas. When it has finished its display, the dark foliage makes a lovely foil for summer-flowering shrubs. - Garden care: Cut back dead or straggly branches in April or May.