About Salix acutifolia Willd.
Salix acutifolia, commonly called Siberian violet-willow, long-leaved violet willow, or sharp-leaf willow, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Salicaceae. It is native to Russia and eastern Asia. This plant is a spreading deciduous shrub or tree that grows up to 10 meters (33 feet) tall and 12 meters (39 feet) wide. Its young shoots are deep purple and covered in a white bloom. Its leaves are narrow, reaching a maximum length of 10 centimeters (4 inches). Older bark of this species has a fine, netted pattern. Like all willows, Salix acutifolia is dioecious. Catkins emerge in early spring, before new leaves develop. Male catkins are 5 centimeters (2 inches) long, silvery, and bear gold anthers; female catkins are green and 3 centimeters (1 inch) long. The specific epithet acutifolia translates to "sharp-leaved". The male clone of this species, 'Blue Streak', has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
