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‘Melanostachys’

Pussywillow

Salix gracilistyla

'Melanostachys'

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Close up of black Melanostachys Salix blooms with red stems Close up of black Melanostachys Salix blooms with red stems in the landscape
  • Early to bloom
  • Good for cutting
  • Unique coloration
Description

The black pussy willow has rich black catkins and dark stems. A great cutting plant and conversation piece.

Awards
Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit
USDA Zone
4 - 8 (-30°F/-34°C)
Exposure
Full sun
Height
6 - 10'
Width
6 - 10'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Deciduous
Bloom Time
Early spring
Flower Color
Black
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4"

Soil

Thrives in moist, slightly acidic soils, but is, overall, adaptable.

Pruning

For optimal flower production, cut hard after bloom.

Uses

Mixed borders; cutting; wildlife gardens; rain gardens.

Growing Tips

The fuzzy catkins are the only real reason to grow this plant, and it is best to prune regularly to encourage juvenile growth, which is the most prolific blooming.

Features: Cut flower, Deer resistant, Clay soil

Filters: Botanical genus: Salix, Common name: Pussywillow, Retail program: Local Roots®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, Exposure: Full sun, Bloom time: Spring, Black flowers, Green foliage

Features: Cut flower, Deer resistant, Clay soil

Filters: Botanical genus: Salix, Common name: Pussywillow, Retail program: Local Roots®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, Exposure: Full sun, Bloom time: Spring, Black flowers, Green foliage