Salix purpurea 'Light Dicks'
purpurea = purple
Purple Willow
This cultivar originated in England around 1908. It is a male selection with gray bark when mature. The leaves are 2.5-5in long, light green in color with a yellowish central vein; the top section of the leaves have fine saw-tooth edges. The fine rods are purplish on the sunny side and olive-green on the shady side. This willow is grown for medium to fine willow basketry work. The one-year old stems of 'Light Dicks' are a very attractive pale reddish brown and they grow to a length of 6-8ft long once established. 'LD' seems to be resistant to pests that cause branching. If left to mature, this willow variety will grow into a spreading shrub up to 15ft tall. Dried rod color: dark olive green
USES: fine basketry of course; we're guessing it will make a very nice specimen plant once established.
Catkin buds shown in late October.
The bright red-brown stems and typical purpurea leaves of 'Light Dicks' in late October.
Lower down the rods they are greenish brown, also in late October.
Male catkins display their orange pollen in late April/early May.
Pale green rods in late October
WillowWorld
of Michael Dodge