An unusually early start in 2012. The most developed catkin still bearing its "cap." These caps are a unique feature, a diagnostic character for the species early in spring. In each catkin bud of heartleaf willow, the scale consists of two separate layers. The loose inner layer, thin and papery, can be observed inside the outer layer when the bud is just opening and then often lingers on top of the grown catkin for a while, like here. Anthers in male catkins typically start with festive bright red colors.