By all accounts, Salix purpurea ‘Goldstones’ is a very pretty basket weaving willow. New stems begin deep red mahogany; by October the bases transition to golden green and by the end of the winter, they shifted to a pale yellow tan. Tan is a rare colour for a purple willow. When dried the rods are a brilliant green (Dunbar Gardens). Similarly, the leaves start a pale green, darken on top; and become a glaucous blue, dominated by a pale mid-rib on the underside, by the autumn. Leaves stay late in the season. If left uncoppiced, makes a great screen or hedge. Highly valued in basketry for its unique light colour when dried. Coppice to encourage more young stem growth.
