Unique Features: The Prairie Cascade willow is a hybrid introduced by the Morden Research Center in Canada, and it is a good selection for colder areas. It grows very rapidly, as long as it has enough water. If it does not have enough the roots will go looking for it; this means that they can be very invasive. It takes several years for the tree to develop a noticeable weeping habit. The long elliptical leaves are dark green and slightly glossy, and in fall the turn a golden yellow. The branches can grow long enough to touch the ground but can be pruned to develop a canopy, the space between the ground and the branches, and with the fast-growing willow this will be a regular task. Once the leaves drop the pendulous braches take over with a yellow color that lasts through the winter. Willows are going to be messy, so be ready for clean up.