Description

Bearbrush is an unusual local silk tassel bush. Although it occurs in many mountainous settings throughout the state it is more common north of Monterey County. Bearbrush seems to favor open chaparral. Locally one may find it growing at the summit of Mt. Umunhum in the Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. Like other members of the genus it is quite adaptable as to growing conditions. Bearbrush is somewhat smaller than Garrya elliptica. Male plants produce the "tassel" but both sexes have attractive pendent flower clusters.