I bought this shrub to provide winter interest in our front garden - the accompanying label had a lovely picture of long pendulous catkins. But throughout winter the catkins remained stubbornly short. I photographed them and asked advice at the garden centre where the shrub was purchased, and was told that once the plant was mature, it would display the desired catkins throughout winter. I didn't need to wait that long. The catkins improved dramatically in March, a time when there is plenty of other distracting garden interest. Oh well, maybe I will get these dramatic catkins in mid winter, when the plant matures.
They really are quite interesting and eye-catching - I can see where they would definitely add to a winter view - maybe next year? Meanwhile, enjoy it this spring I guess!
