text: Goat willow or goat sallow (Salix caprea), a small tree native to northern Europe and northwest Asia.
  Grey willow or grey sallow (Salix cinerea), a small tree native to northern Europe.
  American pussy willow (Salix discolor), native to northern North America.
  Before the male catkins of these species come into full flower they are covered in fine, greyish fur, leading to a fancied likeness to tiny cats, also known as “pussies”. The catkins appear before the leaves, and are one of the earliest signs of spring.  At other times of year trees of most of these species are usually known by their ordinary names.
  Cultural traditions
  Asia
  The many buds of the pussy willow make it a favourite flower for Lunar New Year. The fluffy white blossoms of the pussy willow resemble silk, and they soon give forth young shoots the colour of green jade. In Chinese tradition, this represents the coming of prosperity. Towards the Lunar New Year period in spring, stalks of the plant may be bought from wet market vendors or supermarkets.
  Once unbundled within one's residence, the stalks are frequently decorated with gold and red ornaments—ornaments with colours and textures that signify prosperity and happiness. Felt pieces of red, pink, and yellow are also a common decoration in Southeast Asia.