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Garrya elliptica

Garrya elliptica Douglas ex Lindl.

Wavyleaf Silktassel, Wavy-leaf Silktassel, Silk-tassel Bush, Coastal Silktassel

Garryaceae (Silk Tassel Family)

Synonym(s):

USDA Symbol: GAEL

USDA Native Status: L48 (N)

Wavy-leaf Silktassel is a 10 ft., or taller, evergreen shrub with dense, dark, gray-green foliage. Clusters of foot-long, light-green catkins with a silvery sheen, contrast with the foliage in winter. Evergreen shrub or small tree with tassel-like clusters of flowers and fruit and paired, leathery, wavy-edged leaves. Foliage and other parts have bitter taste. These showy catkins occur only on male plants. Female plants produce less attractive catkins, but bear small, purple fruits. Leaves have a conspicuous wavy margin.

This is the only native species of Garrya reaching tree size. This distinct genus of shrubs and small trees is often placed separately in the Silktassel Family (Garryaceae). Although various parts have a bitter taste, as the name "Quininebush" suggests, goats browse the foliage.