You could have received what is known as Rubykins Pussywillow a really nice addition to the gardens in my point of view. Mine has grown to about 12 feet and seems to be staying there. Because of that and the fact that is is shaped as such, I consider it a small tree.

There is no way to change the colour of the 'cats', and yes, those hairy things are seeds. It likes moist soil, but I have some thriving in regular soil. Mine are in sun for most of the day, yet our climate is probably cooler than yours in summer as we live along the Atlantic.

Here's a picture of Rubykins in summer. Please keep in mind that this photo was taken from the top of my rock wall gardens which would be about 4 feet up. In essence, I am not level with the willow.

Oh, another thing. Hummingbirds love this tree. They seem to play in it, trying to catch each other but what they are really doing is eating very tiny flying bugs that we can barely see.

{{gwi:225696}}

wow tiffy, that is beautiful. the leaves on yours looks more feathery than mine though. Love the flower bed in the foreground.

Thank-You! :O)