Garrya Veatchii

Description

Garrya Veatchii is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Garryaceae family. It is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in riparian areas, canyons, and slopes. This plant is known for its ornamental value, thanks to its beautiful foliage and unusual flowers. The scientific name of Garrya Veatchii honors Robert B. Veatch, a botanist who collected the type specimen in 1949.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Garrya Veatchii can reach a height of 10-20 feet and a spread of 6-10 feet. Its leaves are evergreen, opposite, and leathery, with a glossy dark green color. They are 2-6 inches long and 1-3 inches wide, with a wavy margin. In late winter to early spring, the plant produces long, pendulous, and silky catkins that are 4-8 inches long. The male flowers are yellow-green, while the female ones are reddish. The fruit is a small drupe that turns black when mature.

Care Guide

Garrya Veatchii is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips to help you grow it successfully:

• Water: Water deeply once a week during the first growing season, then reduce watering to once every two weeks. The plant tolerates drought but prefers moist soil.
• Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, or use a slow-release fertilizer once a year. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can damage the plant.
• Soil: Plant Garrya Veatchii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey.
• Sunlight: Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates both, but may produce more flowers in full sun.
• Hardiness Zones: Garrya Veatchii grows in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Garrya Veatchii is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause distortion and discoloration. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can weaken the plant and reduce its aesthetic value. Use fungicides or neem oil to prevent it.

Habitat

Garrya Veatchii is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in moist areas such as canyons, slopes, and streambanks. It prefers well-draining soil and partial sun. The plant is adapted to a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers. It can tolerate temperature extremes and drought, but may suffer in prolonged periods of wetness.

Questions and Answers

Q: Is Garrya Veatchii a good plant for landscaping?

A: Yes, Garrya Veatchii is a great choice for landscaping, especially in naturalistic or woodland gardens. Its beautiful foliage and flowers add interest and texture to the landscape, and it requires little maintenance once established.

Q: Can Garrya Veatchii be pruned?

A: Yes, Garrya Veatchii can be pruned to shape or control its size. Prune in late spring or early summer after the flowering period, and avoid cutting too much of the old wood, as it may reduce the plant’s ability to produce flowers.

Q: Does Garrya Veatchii attract wildlife?

A: Yes, Garrya Veatchii provides food and cover for birds, especially during the winter when other sources are scarce. Its fruit is eaten by various species of birds, such as robins, thrushes, and waxwings.

Q: How fast does Garrya Veatchii grow?

A: Garrya Veatchii is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full size. However, it compensates for its slow growth rate by being long-lived and durable.

Related Plants

• Garrya elliptica
• Garrya fremontii
• Garrya flavescens
• Garrya wrightii

References

• Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s Trees and Shrubs for Warm Climates: An Illustrated Encyclopedia. Timber Press.
• Hogan, S. (2019). The Pacific Northwest Gardener’s Book of Lists. Timber Press.
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Garrya Veatchii. Retrieved from https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/garrya-veatchii