201. Not Your Mother Tongue
Salix melanostachys?
Definitely NOT in my mother tongue. I sometimes wonder how anyone can be a botanist, when every plant has a name with at least 6 syllables. I’m more acquainted with this tree’s English name, the Black Pussy Willow. On a recent trip to our Arboretum, I photographed nine kinds of pussy willow trees, including the Black, Fantail, Big Catkin, and Japanese Pussy Willow.
Pussy willows are one of the first signs of spring in my part of the world. I love pussy willows!
The Daily Shoot 
This is gorgeous! I’m late coming to visit your blog but I’ve been missing out. Great stuff!
I have never seen black pussy willows – these are incredible!
I’ve never seen black pussy willows either. I thought this was a cuckelburr or something. Great shot. I like the sharp contrast of colors. Lighting is terrific. Good job.
I love the variety in the bokeh – some a total blur and others a bit of a fade. Nice shot.
This is a well composed shot of a really pretty plant. I never see pussy willows out haere = no water. I didn’t know there were so many kinds.
Beautiful composition and bokeh! Add me to the list of those who have never seen black pussy willows.
Me neither, but I’d like to! Your photo is really quite spectacular – I love the red and black.
I have never seen a black pussy willow. They’re really quite unique.
How interesting, I’ve never seen a black pussy willow either. I love your creative choice for this theme!
How beautiful & unique! I’ve never seen a black one before. Great shot!
What they said! Except for not seeing a black pussy willow which is the most striking of them all I think (and roots easily in water like most willows)