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This fabulous
cross occurred in the garden of Pat Ballard at Issaquah,
Washington. Garrya x issaquahensis 'Pat Ballard' was
cultivated from the female plant of G. fremontii and the male
plant of G. elliptica. |

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As Arthur Kruckeberg (our local native
plant authority) says 'Pat Ballard' is rightfully named "in
honor of a great lady and a champion of worthy horticulture
causes." This winter our 'Pat Ballard' is, quite literally,
stunning with 12-in. mauve catkins, truly a delight for the
winter garden. |
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Other Clutivars/species: G.
elliptica, G. fremontii, G. elliptica 'James Roof'
References: The Plant Care Manual, Gardening with
Native Plants, Trees & Shrubs for Pacific Northwest Gardens,
Sunset Western Garden |
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at
a glance:
Plant type: Broad Leaved Evergreen Shrub
Family: Garryaceae
Height/Spread: up to 8 ft in height
Common Name: Tassel Bush or Silk-tassel
Leaves: Elliptical, wavy-edged leaves to 2 1/2 in. long, dark green above, gray and woolly beneath
Flowers: Clustered flower tassels; Male catkins are slender and graceful 8-12 in. long with purple and yellow tints
Conditions: Moderately sunny, good drainage, light warm soil; grows best protected from north winds
Disease/pests: None
Bloom Period: December-February (Winter-Early Spring)
Natural Range: Variety G. fremontii
native to mountains of Oregon, California, and Arizona. Variety
G. elliptica native to coast ranges from Southern Oregon to San Luis Obispo County, California
Hardiness: USDA zones 4-8, 14-17
Prune: Early spring after flowering - little pruning necessary
Accession # 93-412
Location: Northwest side of Water Wise Garden |