Bebb’s Willow
Deciduous shrub or small tree growing 2-8 m tall. Features elliptical leaves with wavy margins and catkins appearing in early spring. Adaptable to various soil conditions and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates both dry and wet soils. Provides early season food for pollinators and cover for wildlife. Suitable for naturalized areas, wetland margins, and erosion control. Native to most of North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Yellow (catkins)
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Male and female catkins appear April before leaves. Leaves emerge May. Seeds disperse with cotton-like tufts in June. Yellow fall color develops October.
Wildlife Value: Critical early season pollen source for bees; larval host for many butterflies and moths; buds eaten by grouse
Habit Over Time: Forms a large, multi-stemmed shrub with ascending branches that create an open, rounded form. New stems emerge from the base over time, gradually increasing the plant's footprint. While it can develop into a substantial specimen, the spread is predictable and manageable. Branch structure provides good winter interest.
Height: Medium to Tall (6-15 feet)