Winning the Award of Merit in 1995 and introduced in the early 1860s, this magnificent small tree is a must for any garden in need of winter interest.

Unlike the species this is a slow grower.

It does best in moist soil and semi-shaded areas.

The young shoots and leaves emerge a golden yellow in spring which contrast beautifully with vivid red catkins that open to a pink / yellow. The catkins form as early as august and get better and better in colour and size throughout the winter.

The bark and twiggy branches also turn orange during the winter.

Good as a street tree and for parks and gardens.

This lovely clone can provide wonderful contrast within a garden so care should be taken on where to site it. On frosty or even snowy winter days its vivid red catkin display can be simply stunning. Similarly its light coloured foliage can brighten a dour evergreen backdrop

Mature height:7-12m

Mature spread: 4-6m