Pussy Willow
Deciduous shrub or small tree reaching 3-6 m tall. Features elliptical leaves and distinctive fuzzy catkins (pussy willows) appearing in very early spring before leaves. Prefers moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Provides very early season food for pollinators. Important for wetland habitats. Suitable for rain gardens, wetland restorations, and early spring interest in landscapes. Native to northern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Silver Catkins
Bloom Time: Early-Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Fuzzy catkins emerge March-April before leaves. Leaves emerge May. Seeds disperse with cotton-like tufts in May-June. Yellow fall color develops October.
Wildlife Value: Important early season pollinator plant; leaves feed many butterfly and moth caterpillars; provides cover for wildlife
Habit Over Time: Creates a large, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with ascending branches that form an irregular, open crown. While it may produce root suckers, especially when stressed, the spread is generally modest and manageable. The open structure allows good visibility through the plant at eye level.
Height: Tall (15-25 feet)