I am going to acknowledge something here that is a bit embarrassing - I have never realized that a pussy willow is actually a willow tree or shrub. I have always seen them in their Spring attire - bare branches with small furry white buds - and they are normally cut and used in a Spring flower arrangement. So I was a bit surprised to discover that why yes, they actually grow green leaves! On our most recent trip to the local arboretum, I saw what looked like pussy willow branches on steroids. They were thick, curly, and wild looking. Not the demure thin pussy willows normally seen. I did some research - thanks Google - and discovered that they are Japanese Fantail Willows.
This story offers an explanation for why they are called pussy willows.
Random willow facts:
-Willow catkins can be used to treat sleeplessness, menstrual problems, and agitation.
-Salicin, the natural version of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), is an active ingredient of willow bark.
-The Chinese word chi means "willow" and "breath of life".
I shared this post on The Self Sufficient HomeAcre for the Home Acre Hop.