Willow plant name ‘Preble’

Abstract

A distinct female cultivar of Salix viminalis ×( Salix sachalinensis×Salix miyabeana ) named ‘Preble’, characterized by rapid stem growth producing 29% more woody biomass than the average of three current production cultivars ( Salix×dasyclados ‘SV1’ (unpatented), Salix sachalinensis ‘SX61’ (unpatented), and Salix miyabeana ‘SX64’ (unpatented)) when grown in the same field for the same length of time (three growing seasons after coppice) in two different trials in Constableville, N.Y. and Middlebury, Vt. ‘Preble’ can be planted from dormant stem cuttings, produces multiple stems after coppice and the stem biomass can be harvested when the plant is dormant. In the spring following harvest, the plant will re-sprout very vigorously, producing new stems that can be harvested repeatedly after two to four years of growth. ‘Preble’ displays a low incidence of rust disease and is not damaged by potato leafhoppers.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of  Salix viminalis ×( Salix sachalinensis×Salix miyabeana ) shrub willow plant named ‘Preble’ as described and illustrated herein.