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Pussy Willow
Salix discolor
Shrub/TreePussy Willow
Salix discolor
Tap to flip backGrowing Conditions
Light
Full Sun
Water
Wet – Moist
Soil
Clay, Loam
Size
10-20'
Bloom
Silver & Yellow, Feb–Apr
Why Grow It
Early Bloomer
Blooms early, providing critical spring nectar
Pollinator Magnet
Attracts many types of pollinators
Caterpillar Host
Feeds caterpillars of native moths & butterflies
Did You Know?
Named for the soft, furry silver catkins that look and feel like tiny kitten paws.
The very first pollen of the year — essential for newly-emerged queen bumblebees.
Cut branches in late winter and they'll bloom indoors in a vase — a harbinger of spring.
Wildlife Value
🐝
First Bee Food
Critical first pollen source for queen bumblebees emerging from hibernation
🦋
Willow Moth Host
Host plant for over 400 moth and butterfly species on willows
Good Companions
🌸 Red Osier Dogwood
🌿 Buttonbush
⭐ Swamp Milkweed
Planting Guide
- Plant in full sun in moist to wet soil; tolerates periodic flooding
- Space 8–10″ apart; grows fast and can be coppiced for catkin production
- Cut stems to 12″ every few years to encourage dense, catkin-rich new growth
Heads Up
Spreads by Root
Spreads quickly; may need containment
Plant Details
Made with ♥ by Lu Li