Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys'
Black Pussy Willow is grown primarily for its astonishing purple-black flowering catkins, which appear on bare branches in early March or April.
They make a show-stopping cut arrangement along with other late-winter/early-spring gleanings, especially if you wait for the orange male anthers to form.
This large shrub is useful as a screen and in low, moist spots. It benefits from judicious pruning to maintain an attractive shape.
| Ornamental Characteristics |
| Category |
Shrubs |
| foliage Type |
Deciduous |
| Height |
10' - 15' |
| Spread |
10' - 15' |
| Shape |
Upright, spreading |
| Primary foliage Color |
Green, bright |
| Seasonal foliage Color |
Red stems in winter |
| Flowering Season |
Early spring |
| Flower Color |
Deep purple-black catkins |
| Berries |
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| Environmental Characteristics |
| Growth Rate |
Slow |
| Sun Preferences |
Sun to partial shade |
| Water Preferences |
Wet |
| Cold Hardiness Zone |
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