Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys'
aka Salix melanostachys
Common name: Black pussy willow
Description: large shrub; 7 m (23'); rounded
form; slow growing; showy black catkins appearing in spring;
highly ornamental
Ideal conditions: full sun to part shade;
thrives in moist fertile soil; tolerates a wide range of soil
types; prune to control size
Coldest Zone: 4 (find your
zone; further info on plant hardiness)
Black pussy willow will often bloom (display its catkins)
before the snow melts. No other willow compares to the display
of orange anthers against the jet-black catkins.
Slow-growing and easily controlled by selective pruning, 'Melanostachys'
is suitable for smaller areas.
Sizes available: not available
in 2010
Canadian price
list ||
US price list
Visit this site for a spectacular
photo of the catkins.
Comparison of willow
stems and leaves
Lists of various willow
uses
hardy field grown plants
