The term pussy willow is very widespread in English, and -- despite not being *very* old (the OED suggests it was an Americanism that was first reported in the early 19th century), its basic metaphor (soft as a kitten's fur) is shared with several European languages, plus the somewhat older English term "catkin."

About fifty years ago it was reported from one part of Newfoundland that they were known as "pussycat trees." I don't know if that term is still used.