CATKINS

A catkin, or ament, is a strand of tiny unisexual flowers, blooming on many species of trees in a form that brings to mind the graceful trees on a blue willow plate.
When we speak of flowers, in these cases, we're not referring to colorful blooms with petals, as in insect-pollinated blossoms. These flowers are tiny and inconspicuous, but the blooming catkins themselves are elegant, though largely short-lived.
Each species has its own habits and forms, which are interesting to contemplate. The brief beauty of the catkin-bearing trees is one of the treats of early spring, a welcome sight as we wait for the greenery to burst.