When I was little, so long ago, this was called a pussy willow and there was no other meaning of the word pussy, in my child's world at least, besides a cat or kitten. I loved the freedom to say pussy willow and not be concerned about jokes, innuendos or double entendre.
Finding these brought me to that time. That time of a rosy cheeked little girl running through the woods finally unencumbered by heavy winter coats thrilled that spring may yet happen again.