Salix purpurea 'Goldstones'
purpurea = purple
Purple Willow
A variety we know little about as we have only grown it for a couple of years. It is rated very highly by basketmakers and the pale stems are unique in this species. Dunbar Gardens, from whom we obtained our stock, says that it is golden green when harvested and dries to vibrant green. It grows 6-8ft in one year in Washington State. If anyone knows more about this selection I'd appreciate hearing from you. I'll do better with photos in spring/summer--promise! Dried rod color: khaki to tan
USES: deer fencing; basketry and fine arts!
Late October: the stems have turned a deep mahogany red and the scarlet catkin buds sparkle like gems.
Salix purpurea 'Goldstones': pale stems in early May, with pale green leaves.
Leaves are much broader than the average purpurea selection. Late October.
Three stages of the male catkins opening in late April
The upper sides of the leaves are dark green in late October and the undersides are glaucous blue.
After leaf-drop the long narrow and pointed catkin buds are more prominant.
The bases of the stems are pale tan in late October.
The undersides of the leaves feature a pale midrib against the waxy glaucous-blue protective coating (it reduces transpiration).
WillowWorld
of Michael Dodge