This evergreen is grown mainly for its long catkins, displayed over winter, hence its alternative name, the silk tassel bush. The largest specimen in the Pleasaunce is to the east of the walled garden.
There are three large trees of this type; one by the entrance in Kidbrooke Lane and the other two in the woodland glen. It is one of the world's most ancient trees; also individual specimens can live up to 2,500 years