Garrya fremontii, Bear Brush or Fremont Silktassel

Garrya fremontii is found growing in chaparral woodlands, canyons and slopes, foothills, and mountain forests throughout its native range from Southern Washington through Oregon and into Southern California. Glossy, dark green, evergreen leaves are the backdrop for pinkish-yellow, 2 – 5 inches long, late winter catkins. Fremontii's leaves are less wavy than either 'Evie' or 'James Roof'. This plant works wonderfully well as a screen or hedge, creating cover for birds and small animals. Winter moist, summer dry — perfect for the Northwest and West Coast.  It is also tolerant of climates east of the Cascades. 

In 2024, one of our amazing staff members pruned the lower layer of our Garrya fremontii and in the following January, it bloomed like never before! The first picture is from January 2025 and the second is from early February 2023. In general, pruning of Garrya should be done sparingly, this shrub had not been pruned for at least 8 years (too much to do). The traditional best time to prune would be spring following their catkins but we generally prune in summer as our dry weather helps prevent disease. 

Mature size: up to 8 ft T x W

Minimum temperature: -5° F