Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys', Black Pussy Willow

Deep purplish-black fuzzy catkins with red anthers emerge in early spring before leaves unfurl, and are lovely by themselves in a tall dry stoneware vase. Consider cutting the plant back hard every 3-4 years to promote new, vigorous, thicker growth, making more apparent the purplish-black stems in winter. Leaves are 5" long, toothed, green above, silver below. This is one deep, dark, and handsome plant. Mature size: 6-10 ft T x WMinimum temperature: -20° F