Evergreen shrub with dark, gray-green leathery egg-shaped foliage that grows to 12 ft tall and wide. Flowers appear in winter with male and female catkins on separate plants. The showy long, drooping clusters of greenish-white male flowers reach 6-12 in. long. Female plants produce less showy catkins but bear hairy fruits that turn from light green to dark purple and are eaten by birds.
Plant Details
| Habitats | |
|---|---|
| Habitat Notes | dry north-facing slopes and ridges, mixed evergreen forests and shaded valleys. |
| Mature Height | 8-12 ft |
| Shade Preference |
 |
| Soil Tolerance | Well drained, moist soil. |
| Special Uses | Drought tolerant. |
