Pussy Willow
Salix discolor · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Salicaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental and riparian shrub or small tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type, wild form
Hardiness Zones
Thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 8, demonstrating high tolerance for cold winters and temperate summer conditions
About This Tree
Forms a large multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with an upright, rounded, and sometimes irregular habit. Noted for its vigorous fast-growing stems and soft, furry catkins that appear before the leaves in early spring.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves, elliptic to lanceolate in shape, measuring 2 to 4 inches long. Margins are finely toothed or serrated. Dark green above and distinctly paler, grayish-white, or glaucous underneath.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and reddish-brown on young stems, developing gray-brown furrows and ridges with lenticels as the trunk and older branches mature
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to northern North America, ranging across much of Canada and the northern United States
Growing Season
Spring-flowering, early leafing out in March or April, dormant through the winter months with distinctive catkins forming in late winter
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for best growth and heavy catkin production. Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and tolerates poorly drained locations, with moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 15 to 25 feet in height with a similar or slightly narrower spread. Fast growth rate with a short to moderate lifespan of 20 to 30 years.
Special Characteristics
Renowned for its iconic fuzzy silvery-white catkins which are a classic harbinger of spring. Highly responsive to pruning and coppicing, which encourages long, brightly colored new stems.
Wildlife & Ecology
Extremely valuable early-season nectar and pollen source for native bees and other emerging pollinators. Catkins and buds provide winter and early spring food for birds and small mammals.