About Salix reticulata L.
Salix reticulata L. is a dwarf, prostrate, deciduous shrub that grows 8 cm (3 in) tall by 30 cm (12 in) wide, forming loose open mats with extensive, heavily branched underground stems. Exposed stems of this species can grow up to 20 cm (7.9 in) high. Its young twigs are slightly hairy, becoming hairless and dark reddish-brown as they mature. Leaves of Salix reticulata measure 1.2 to 5 cm long and 1 to 3.5 cm wide; they are densely hairy when young, becoming hairless at least on the upper surface, and feature a very prominent network of veins. In spring, slender yellow catkins with pink tips emerge. This species is cultivated as an ornamental groundcover plant, and has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
