1 named cultivar

‘Pendula’Weeping Pussy Willow

tree

Weeping Pussy Willow

The Story

Plant Bio

Salix caprea, goat willow or pussy willow, is a fast multi-stemmed shrub or small tree from Europe and western Asia, reaching twelve to twenty-five feet. Broad dark green leaves are grey and downy beneath, and in very early spring the bare stems carry the silvery silken male catkins that give it its common name, opening bright yellow with pollen.

Those catkins arrive when almost nothing else is out, and that timing makes it one of the most valuable early plants for bees — queen bumblebees emerging from hibernation depend heavily on willow pollen. Only male plants give the showy display. It roots so readily that a cut stem pushed into damp ground usually grows, which is useful and occasionally a nuisance.

Uses & Benefits:

Silver silken catkins on bare stems in very early spring, opening yellow with pollen.

Roots from a pushed-in stem, grows fast, and cut stems are a florist's staple.

One of the most important early pollen sources there is, especially for emerging queen bumblebees.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

222 inches

Width

138 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate to high

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Europe and western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in full sun or partial shade in moist soil.
Keep it well away from drains and foundations.
Buy a male plant if you want the silver catkins.
Cut stems for the vase before the catkins open fully.
Prune hard after flowering if you want it small.
Expect cut stems to root wherever they land.

Pro Tip

Only male plants carry the silvery catkins, so buy in early spring when you can see them rather than trusting a label.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant it where bees will find it early 🐝
Buy a male plant for catkins 🏷️
Prune hard right after flowering ✂️
Keep it clear of drains 🚱

Don't

Plant it near pipes or foundations ❌
Prune it in autumn or winter ❌
Leave cut stems lying on damp soil ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Enjoy
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Early pollinator plantingDamp ground and stream sideCut stems for spring arrangements

Companion Plants

Snowdrop Hellebore Red Osier Dogwood Winterberry Daffodil

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Weeping Pussy Willow questions

What zones can Weeping Pussy Willow grow in?

Weeping Pussy Willow is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Weeping Pussy Willow deer resistant?

Yes — Weeping Pussy Willow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Weeping Pussy Willow bloom?

Weeping Pussy Willow typically blooms in late winter to early spring through early spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Weeping Pussy Willow need full sun?

Weeping Pussy Willow does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.