Eggleaf silktassel (Garrya ovata)
Also known as: Silktassel bush
Eggleaf silktassel is a hardy evergreen shrub recognized for its tough, oval leaves arranged oppositely. It is notable for its dangling clusters of tiny, gray flowers that add winter interest. This plant thrives in well-drained soil and prefers areas with partial shade. As an adaptive understory species, it benefits from some protection against intense sunlight and can withstand a range of environmental conditions.
In This Article
Attributes of Eggleaf silktassel
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Shrub
Plant Height
1.8 m to 3.5 m
Spread
5 to 10 feet
Leaf Color
Dark green
Flower Size
1 to 2 inches
Flower Color
Silver-grey
Images of Eggleaf silktassel
Quickly Identify Eggleaf silktassel
1
To identify Garrya ovata, look for its evergreen, leathery leaves which have a wavy edge and are dark green on the top and lighter underneath. Another identifying feature is its long, silky catkins that are usually silver-grey in color.
Scientific Classification of Eggleaf silktassel
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Garryales
Family
Silk tassel
Genus
Silk tassel
Species
Eggleaf silktassel
Planting and Growing of Eggleaf silktassel
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Watering Schedule
Every 3 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
4-6 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Terracotta, Plastic
How to Water Eggleaf silktassel?
Water Garrya ovata deeply, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. The principle is to allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings, ensuring adequate moisture reaches the roots without causing root rot.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Eggleaf silktassel?
›
What should I do if my Eggleaf silktassel is not getting enough water?
›
What are the symptoms of an overwatered Eggleaf silktassel?
›
How to save an overwatered Eggleaf silktassel?
›
What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Eggleaf silktassel?
Garrya ovata benefits from full sun to partial sun conditions, translating to about 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. Ideal lighting supports robust foliage growth and strengthens the plant's resilience to environmental stressors.
How much sunlight does it need daily?
›
What is the best location for planting?
›
How can you achieve ideal lighting indoors?
›
What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Eggleaf silktassel?
For optimal growth, Garrya ovata thrives in temperatures ranging between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This range ensures that the plant can photosynthesize effectively while maintaining cellular functions that are critical for growth and development. Keeping the temperature in this ideal range can help in achieving robust growth and healthy foliage.
What Soil is Best for Eggleaf silktassel?
Garrya ovata thrives best in well-draining soil as it helps prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Good drainage ensures that the roots have access to the right balance of water and air. This plant requires nutrient-rich soil to foster healthy growth. Nutrients provide essential elements that help in robust foliage development and improve the plant's resistance to diseases. While Garrya ovata needs moisture, the soil should not remain saturated. Keeping the soil moderately moist supports consistent growth and prevents drought stress, particularly during hotter periods.
How to Fertilize Eggleaf silktassel?
For Garrya ovata, a balanced amount of fertilizer is essential. Generally, use a half-strength liquid fertilizer for thorough coverage or a handful of slow-release granular fertilizer applied to the root zone. Avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to weak growth and salt build-up.
How to Prune Eggleaf silktassel?
When pruning Garrya ovata, always wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or thorns that may be present. Ensure your tools are sterilized to prevent the spread of disease between plants. Avoid heavy pruning in the late spring and summer as this may reduce blooming. For significant shaping, perform another light round of pruning in mid-summer to refine the shrub's form without stressing the plant excessively.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate Eggleaf silktassel plant?
1
Gather seeds from healthy, mature Garrya ovata plants during late spring. Ensure seeds are dry and free from any mold or pests before planting.
2
Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Sterilize the soil to kill any pathogens that could hinder seed germination or cutting establishment.
3
Sow seeds shallowly in the prepared trays, covering them lightly with soil. Maintain a consistent temperature and moisture level to encourage germination.
How to Repot Eggleaf silktassel plant?
1
Garrya ovata tends to show signs of needing repotting when it becomes root-bound, meaning the roots start circling the pot’s interior. Additionally, if you notice a significant decrease in growth or the plant drying out more quickly than usual, these are indicators that it's time to repot.
2
Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with sufficient drainage holes. Opting for a slightly bigger pot provides the roots with ample space to grow, ensuring the plant remains healthy and stable, reducing the risk of overwatering.
3
Use a well-draining potting mix that can maintain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The ideal mix contains components like perlite, compost, and bark. This balance ensures the roots get access to both air and moisture, fostering a healthy plant.
