Salix discolor (pussy willow)

A tall shrub or small tree, famous for its silky gray flower buds which are one of the first harbingers of spring. Native to wet places - swamps, streamsides and lakesides - but will grow in average garden soil. Fast-growing and long-rooted. Usually a multi-stemmed shrub to 15' but can grow taller if single-stemmed. Takes hard pruning well, and can be cut to the ground every 3-5 years for a more compact size and shape.. Good for screening, erosion control, and wildlife habitat, especially on the edge of water.

Our bare-root trees and shrubs are in their third or fourth year and are generally between 20" and 30" tall.