Salix gracilistyla Melanostachys - Rosegold Pussy Willow

Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys' differs from the wolf's claw willow by its even darker, longer, non-silky catkins, which are even more decorative. An early flowering, clearly visible on reddish branches still devoid of leaves. It is a large, bushy deciduous shrub with elegant foliage that stands out in the garden.

Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys' is also marketed under its Japanese name Salix 'Kurome', or as S. melanostachys, S. gracilistyla var. melanostachys. The species originates from Asia (Japan, Korea, China) and, like all willows, belongs to the Salicaceae family. The cultivar 'Melanostachys' is a deciduous bush with a spreading and dense habit. Its growth is rapid and it can reach 2 to 3 m in all directions. Its flowering, which occurs in February or March, before the foliage appears, is its main asset. It takes the form of long catkins of intense black that retain their covering at the top for some time, giving them a claw-like appearance. These catkins release brick-red stamens that later become covered with yellow pollen. This flowering, which attracts pollinating insects, is followed by the emergence of compound leaves made up of lanceolate leaves that evolve from a greyish green to a beautiful glossy green. The foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling.

Hardy down to at least -20 °C, the 'Melanostachys' willow is not very demanding regarding soil quality, provided it remains moist while being well-drained. It does not require special maintenance, but severe pruning, carried out every two years, will rejuvenate its branches. In the garden, you can plant it as a specimen or in a bushy mass. It will look stunning alongside the White Dogwood Baton Rouge®, the Shrimp Willow, Japanese Quince, or Hellebores. It will also thrive near water features. Finally, this bush can also be cultivated for floral art; by cutting a few branches, you can create stunning floral arrangements for the home.