Plant of Merit: Garrya elliptica

Published 1:28 pm Tuesday, April 1, 2014

WHAT: Garrya elliptica is also known as coast silk tassel and thrives in poor shaded soil.

It’s long white tassels blow gracefully in the wind during a time of year when garden interest is needed, specifically December through early spring.

They create the same vertical effect as tinsel on a Christmas tree.

SUN OR SHADE: Dry shade is optimal protected from strong cold winter winds.

SIZE: Coast silk tassel matures at 12- to-15-feet tall and as wide.

SEE IT: At the Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens Native Plant Trail; 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett; for more information see www.evergreenarboretum.com and take a virtual photo tour. 425-257-8597.

Source: Sandra Schumacher