Hi, While out driving the back roads here in Northern Nova Scotia, we came across a shrub which was both familiar and puzzling, and are having trouble making an identification. In form,it looks a lot like a pussy willow, many branches, about 4-6 feet tall. Leaves are alternate, simple, lanceolate, and finely toothed. We have seen it growing in waste places and roadsides. At the end of some branches are large seed pods (or maybe flowers?) which are greenish white, button shaped at first, elongating to a cone shape. Any help with identification would be much appreciated,since we've been combing our reference books with no luck. Attached are a couple of images to help. Thanks, The MacLeods
After much head scratching, we have come to the conclusion that you are looking at a willow (which willow we couldn't say). The structure on the tip of the branch is a willow cone gall, caused by an insect (probably Rhabdophaga strobiloides). Check out the following link: University of Minnesota Extension Service
