Garrya elliptica (Coast Silk Tassel)

Garrya elliptica, commonly known as Coast Silk Tassel, is an evergreen shrub native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon. It has long, leathery, dark green leaves that provide an attractive backdrop for its unique drooping clusters of silvery-gray catkins that appear in winter. The plant is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The female flowers develop into small fruit clusters that persist into spring. This shrub can reach a height of 5-8 feet and has a width ranging from 2-7 feet.