Shrubs

Salix discolor

American pussy willow

American pussy willow. Representative plant

Silky silver catkins appear before the leaves, making this willow a familiar sign of early spring. Its quick growth suits roomy naturalistic plantings near water. Cut branches are useful indoors, but keep the spreading roots away from drains and sewer lines.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Mature size: 10–20 ft. tall × 8–12 ft. wide
Water: Moist soil; tolerates wet sites
Hardiness: USDA zones 2–7
Bloom: Silvery catkins; late winter–spring

Sizes & prices

#5$59.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Wet soil: Tolerant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Caterpillar host: Butterflies

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to North America. Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous.

Growing & care

Pruning: Prune after flowering; tolerates strong renewal pruning.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

Kew Science, Plants of the World Online

Photo: Dan Mullen · CC BY 2.0

Image notes: American pussy willow. Representative plant; resized and re-encoded, not cropped.

Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.