Mt. Aso Pussy willow

alix gracilistyla 'Mt. Aso' is a unique ornamental pussy willow cultivar prized for its striking, rosy-pink catkins that appear in late winter to early spring. The fuzzy catkins emerge on bare branches before the leaves, creating a bold and colorful display during the colder months when few other plants are in bloom. As the season progresses, the catkins gradually fade to silver-gray. This deciduous shrub typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, forming a loose, upright habit. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil, though it tolerates wetter conditions well. Hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8, Salix gracilistyla 'Mt. Aso' adds early-season interest and is especially effective in winter gardens, near water features, or used as cut stems in floral arrangements.