Pussy willow is a short-lived, fast-growing, native tree or large shrub with a rounded crown. In early spring, the silky, furry catkins open before the leaves appear to signal spring is on the way.
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Size and Form
Pussy willow is a small, erect tree to large shrub reaching 15 to 25 feet high and 12 to 15 feet wide. It is often confused with goat willow (Salix caprea).
Native Geographic Location and Habitat
Commonly found in marshy and swampy areas, it is native to the upper central and eastern United States and most of Canada. C-Value: 2.
Bark Color and Texture
Slender greenish-red buds grow on gray-brown stems.
Leaf Arrangement, Size, Shape, and Texture
The alternate leaves are elliptical to oblong, measuring 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide. The leaves have entire or slightly toothed margins. They are dark blue green above, and pale to white beneath.
Flower Arrangement, Shape, and Size
The plant is dioecious (separate male and female plants). Male and female flowers (catkin) are 1 inch long, fuzzy, and silvery gray. Willows are wind pollinated.
Fruit and Seed Description
Fruit are small brown capsules in clusters.
Care Knowledge
Plant Care
Pussy willow does best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. Tolerant of wet soil once established. Prune in late winter to early spring. This tree/shrub can be cut back to the ground every three to five years to maintain size. It can also be pruned into a hedge. This plant is shallow-rooted and can develop surface roots with age. It is short-lived.
List of Pests, Diseases, and Tolerances
Mildew, blights, leaf spots, canker diseases, borers, and aphids are all problems on this plant. The leaves and stems can be messy. Tolerant of deer, wet soils, and black walnut toxicity.
