Wright’s Silktassel
(Garrya wrightii)
Wright’s Silktassel (Garrya wrightii)
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Patrick Alexander
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Image By:
Patrick Alexander
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Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Patrick Alexander | License Type: CC0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Josve05a | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Garrya wrightii, commonly known as Wright’s Silktassel, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to chaparral and woodland margins in the Southwestern USA and Northern Mexico. It typically grows slowly to a height of 12–36 feet (3.7–11.0 m) with a similar spread. Wright’s Silktassel has a distinctive appearance with square, woody branches and thick, leathery leaves that are dark green and glossy on top with a paler underside. The species is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. The male flowers are more conspicuous, with long, silvery catkins that appear in late winter to early spring, while the female flowers are less showy. After flowering, female plants produce small, rounded, purple berries that are less than a centimeter wide, each containing one or two seeds. These berries are an important food source for birds, which aid in seed dispersal.
Wright’s Silktassel is valued for its drought tolerance and wildlife support, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, natural landscaping, and habitat restoration. It is also used for erosion control due to its robust root system. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to part shade, requires low amounts of water once established, and prefers well-drained soils. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils and can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0
Wright’s Silktassel is valued for its drought tolerance and wildlife support, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, natural landscaping, and habitat restoration. It is also used for erosion control due to its robust root system. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun to part shade, requires low amounts of water once established, and prefers well-drained soils. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils and can be susceptible to scale insects and fungal diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
- Height: 8-10 feet
- Width: 2-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Chaparral and woodland margins in the Southwestern USA and Northern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: Quinine-Bush, Coffee Berry, Bearberry, Feverbush, Grayleaf Dogwood
Scientific Names: , Garrya wrightii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Garrya wrightii Torr.