These are the greening male (staminate) catkins of the Pussy Willow (salix discolor) somewhat further along on their springtime journey and looking furry and exuberant against the clear blue sky this morning, a little after sunrise.In early spring, the buds were grey, silky and as lush as an otter's pelt, and we loved the willows for their abundant furry buds, but first and foremost, their flowering was a sure sign that Spring was on its way, hence their popularity as decorative elements in the little blue house in the village.
The male and female flowers of this rowdy spring blooming little tree or shrub are borne on separate specimens, and the early male flowers are a treasure trove for the first bees of spring and other pollen seeking insects. This morning I was delighted to see that my little willow was chock full of rapturously foraging bees — the air was full of their happy buzzing.
Could there be a better motif for Earth Day than these exuberant willow catkins dancing in the breeze? There is a haiku sequence for Earth Day here.
3 comments:
when we moved into our house 13 years ago there were 3 pussy willow trees. one by one they died, the last two years ago. They were large - I have no idea why they died. And I miss them. Lovely picture.
Willows are one of my favorites too.
I am so glad you have willows near you, they are such supportive and beautiful trees. I had one as a friend growing up. :)
Post a Comment