Pussy Willow — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Salix discolor |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 5–14 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 12.8–18.3 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 365–730 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 182.9–304.8 |
| Mature height (cm) | 304.8–609.6 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 182.9–304.8 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 4–8 |
| Light | Partial sun |
| Water | High |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Pussy Willow is the beloved harbinger of spring throughout eastern North America, a large native shrub or small tree native to wet meadows, swamp margins, streambanks, and moist thickets from Newfoundland to British Columbia and south to the Appalachians and Pacific Northwest, producing in February and March the large, plump, silvery-gray male catkins that are one of the most universally recognized signals that winter is ending. Male plants produce the showiest catkins (female catkins are smaller and less attractive); catkin branches cut in late winter and placed in water indoors immediately become a beloved floral display that reliably roots — the resulting rooted cuttings can be potted or planted directly in the garden. An important early pollinator plant, providing pollen to native bees, honey bees, and other emerging insects before virtually any other tree flowers; willows in general are one of the most important native pollinator plants in North America. Plant in wet to moist, slightly acidic soil in full sun to partial shade near pond margins, rain gardens, or wet depressions.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0