Salix Pendulina Blanda, commonly known as the glaucous willow, is a deciduous shrub species belonging to the family Salicaceae. It is native to Europe and can be found in various parts of the continent, including the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians.
The glaucous willow typically grows as a medium-sized shrub, reaching heights of about 2-4 meters. It has long, slender branches that hang gracefully, giving it a pendulous appearance. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color, with occasional cracks as the plant ages.
The leaves of Salix Pendulina Blanda are elongated, narrow, and pointed at the ends. They have a distinct glaucous, or bluish-gray, appearance that gives the species its common name. When the young leaves emerge in the spring, they display a silvery coloration that adds to the ornamental value of the plant.
In the early spring, before the leaves appear, the glaucous willow produces catkins. These are long, cylindrical clusters of male and female flowers, with the male flowers occupying the upper part and the female flowers located in the lower section. The flowers are greenish-yellow and appear before the leaves, adding to the visual appeal of the shrub.
Salix Pendulina Blanda is often cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes due to its graceful appearance and distinctive foliage. It is particularly well-suited for rock gardens and areas with moist soil. Additionally, the plant provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, making it valuable for ecological purposes.
