Violet Willow

Not native to the UK, the Violet Willow is a Central European species, normally found growing along rivers, both in mountainous and lowland regions. It's a very attractive species and has been widely planted outside its range. A few bushes were planted by Peterborough Development Corporation in the Nene corridor, among a range of other native and introduced willows They are still surviving, but show no signs of reproducing. 

This species is one of the highlights of early spring for me. They are among the first of the catkins to emerge and are initially densely furry, with noticeable pink and greenish hues. At this stage they are more similar to the familiar catkins of Goat Willow, but are somewhat larger and the golden crown of anthers contrasts dramatically with the deep red twigs.