Salix rosmarinifolia 'Tiny Pearls' (PBR)

From the moment buds appear, this compact willow forms a dense shrub made up of fine, upright shoots smothered in soft, silvery buds. Salix rosmarinifolia ‘Tiny Pearls’ stands out in late winter and early spring, when its woolly buds line the yellow-brown stems in huge numbers, making it a real favourite for cut flower arrangements and indoor displays.

As the season moves on, narrow green leaves emerge, showing paler midribs and and softly downy white undersides with small catkins following in late spring, keeping interest going as borders wake up.

Neat, well behaved and easy to grow, it works brilliantly in sunny borders, gravel gardens or containers where its fine detail can be appreciated up close. This deciduous shrub thrives in well-drained soil and needs very little fuss once established, just a light trim after flowering if you want to keep it compact. Rosemary-leaved willow is ideal for gardeners looking to add early-season interest, structure and plenty of cutting material without taking up too much space.