What on earth is this?!

[BooseysMom]

Can anyone explain what on earth this is growing from the side of my willow tree? DH just discovered it. I hadn't looked properly and assumed it was a rogue weed but it's actually growing as a branch from the main trunk. Should I cut it off?
Thanks

Hard to tell because the closer photo is out of focus. Have you taken a close look to see if they are pests crawling about? Although from what I can see it doesn't look like a pest. A clearer photo would be very helpful.

Thanks for your reply. It's not a pest. It's a rogue stem completely different leaf shape and colour to the main tree.

Your willow might have been grafted on to a rootstock of a different species. This will be growing a rogue stem. I'd just cut it off.

Your main tree appears to be a variegated one. A lot of variegated plants will sometimes produce a non variegated shoot. These are usually very vigorous. Just cut it off where it meets the main stem.

Grafted! That's it! I've never understood grafting but I think you've hit the nail on the head! Thanks 😊

Your main tree appears to be a variegated one. A lot of variegated plants will sometimes produce a non variegated shoot. These are usually very vigorous. Just cut it off where it meets the main stem.

Ah, OK, thanks for the advice 😊