Since New York City had its warmest winter last year, some plants are beginning to bloom earlier than expected.This photo of a pussy willow tree was taken earlier this week when I was waiting for the bus to go home. Pussy willow (salix discolor) got its name from the soft furry buds that form on the naked branch during late winter. The silky texture and grey colors of the buds resemble cats' paws. In early spring, the buds bloom to produce medium size white and pink flowers.
Click to enlarge the photo and you can almost feel the furry buds. Meow!!
