Salix discolor – Pussy Willow is a fast-growing native shrub or small tree valued for its early spring catkins, which are one of the first signs of spring. The soft, silvery catkins appear on bare branches in late winter to early spring, providing an important early-season pollen source for native bees and pollinators. These fluffy blooms mature into yellow, pollen-laden catkins as the season progresses.

Pussy Willow’s narrow green leaves emerge after flowering and turn yellow in fall, adding seasonal interest. This multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 6-15 feet tall and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist to wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, riparian plantings, and wetland edges. Its dense growth provides valuable cover for wildlife and contributes to erosion control along streams and ponds.

Why Choose Salix discolor – Pussy Willow?

• Early-season catkins provide a vital pollen source for native pollinators
• Fast-growing and adaptable to wet or poorly drained soils
• Ideal for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and naturalized landscapes
• Provides food and shelter for birds and beneficial insects
• Native, low-maintenance, and deer-resistant

Cultivating Tips:

• Plant in full sun to partial shade for best growth and flowering
• Prefers moist, well-drained to wet soils; tolerates periodic flooding
• Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
• Can be coppiced regularly for vigorous catkin production

Design Ideas for Your Garden:

• Use as a focal point in rain gardens and wetland plantings
• Ideal for erosion control on streambanks and pond edges
• Combine with other moisture-loving natives like Clethra alnifolia and Itea virginica for a layered effect

Ecological Benefits:

• Provides early pollen for native bees and other pollinators
• Supports birds with dense cover and nesting habitat
• Stabilizes soil in wetland and riparian areas, preventing erosion