Black Pussy Willow (Salix gracilistyla melanostachys)

No plant heralds in the spring season better than the Pussy Willow with its young catkins that emerge on the first warm days. One of the unique forms of this famous shrub is the black-flowering variety. This native of temperate Asia creates an easily managed shrub for border areas in the garden landscape. Pussy Willows are some of the earliest pollen and nectar sources for our pollinating insects and help them regain their strength after the long winter months. Once flowering is complete plants can be pruned to the desired form and size without disrupting the next spring’s bloom. Easy and fast growing they do best in full sun.