Unidentified Tree or Shrub

[woolumstick]

I found this when it was only 2 leaves old. I knew it wasn't a weed and thought I'd give it a chance to grow by itself. It was growing in the shade of a potted plant I bought from the local garden centre. It's only about 2 months old but is already 8 inches high.



It it straight and strong, has soft oval slightly serrated leaves which grow alternately. Each leave has two fluffy mini leaves (what are these called?) at the bottom of each stem near the trunk of the plant. Each set of fluffy bits has a bud.

Any ideas anyone? I want to give it a place in my garden as long as it's not a giant of a plant (I have planted 9 trees in the last 3 years already!!).

I have searched high and low for a matching leaf and been through all the tree identifiers but no luck so far.

You lot are fab and someone will know what it is.

Your help will help me give it a proper place to live in the garden.

Cheers all!

[davidbr]

It's Goat Willow, Salix caprea - a native plant, seedlings quite often spring up in unexpected places

[Jason Claxton]

Goat Willow now,maybe Purple Emperors , then on it later,as thats one that it lays its eggs on,very unlikely but just another bit of information to go with Davids I.D.

[woolumstick]

Thank you! Now I can plant it where it deserves some space. I love native plants and save what I can when it turns up. Your help has been most appreciated.

Have a great festive break