Just before Easter, as I trudged through our local grocery store, a pot of hanging pussy willows caught my eye. I had never seen or heard of the grafted weeping variety...and ergo I needed to know more. The young lady behind the counter really had very little knowledge on the plant other than to read the attached card that came with the plant.
Turns out this plant is called the Salix Caprea Pendula or The Weeping Pussy Willow. Beautiful. The fluffy silvery white catkins turn a golden yellow and once bloomed, the plant becomes covered in dark green leaves. It is winter hardy to my zone 3 and enjoys a drink more than not.
It has been said to cut the plant stems back to within two inches of the main stem once the bloom period is over, but I am going to wait awhile as I am enjoying the plant as is.
There is a bit of folklore to the Weeping Pussy Willow: Legend has it that the willow is bestowed with magical power capable of fulfilling wishes. For a wish to be granted, ask permission of the willow explaining your desire. Select a pliable shoot and tie a loose knot in it expressing your wish. When your wish is fulfilled, return and until the knot. They say to remember to thank the willow for your gift.
No comments:
Post a Comment