A distinct female cultivar of Salix viminalis.times.S. miyabeana named
`Otisco`, characterized by rapid stem growth producing greater than 42%
more woody biomass than one of its parents (`SX64`) and 33% more biomass
than a current production cultivar (`SV1`). `Otisco` produced greater
than 2.5-fold more stem biomass than two other current production
cultivars, `SX67` and `SX61`. `Otisco` 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 after two to four years of growth. This harvest cycle can be
repeated several times. The stem biomass can be chipped and burned as a
source of renewable energy, generating heat and/or electricity. `Otisco`
displays a low incidence of rust disease and is not damaged by potato
leafhoppers.