shrub

Dwarf Arctic Willow

Salix purpurea 'Nana'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium to Wet

Humidity

Average to High

Lifespan

20-40 years

Native To

Europe, North Africa, Central Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Salix purpurea is a species of willow known for its slender, flexible stems, which are often purplish, and its narrow, blue-green leaves. It is adaptable to a range of soils, especially moist ones. 'Nana' is a compact, dwarf cultivar that forms a dense, rounded shrub with fine-textured foliage. Its blue-green leaves create a soft, airy appearance, and its purplish winter stems add seasonal interest.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The Dwarf Arctic Willow offers a unique, fine-textured, billowy appearance with its silvery blue-green foliage. In winter, the bare purplish stems provide subtle color and structural interest in the landscape.

Its compact, dense habit makes it an excellent choice for a low, informal hedge. It is also highly effective for erosion control on banks and in rain gardens due to its fibrous root system and love of moisture.

Like all willows, it is a valuable early-season source of pollen and nectar for native bees. The dense branching also provides cover for small birds and other wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun for best foliage and stem color.
This willow thrives in moist soil but tolerates average conditions.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant in the hole at the same depth it was in the container.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Keep consistently moist, especially during the first growing season.

Pro Tip

For the best stem color and a compact habit, prune it back hard to about 6-12 inches from the ground every 1-2 years in late winter.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture; it's a great choice for rain gardens.
Prune regularly to maintain its dense, dwarf form.
Plant in full sun to get the best blue-green foliage color.
Use it to stabilize soil on moist slopes.

Don't

Do not let the soil dry out for extended periods.
Avoid planting in deep shade, which leads to sparse growth.
Do not plant near septic systems or water lines, as willow roots are water-seeking.
Avoid planting near white pines if rust is a concern in your area.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fine-textured low hedgeGraceful mass planting for moist areasSoftens rock gardens or foundations

Companion Plants

Cornus sericea 'Arctic Fire' Iris sibirica Juncus effusus Astilbe Lobelia cardinalis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dwarf Arctic Willow questions

What zones can Dwarf Arctic Willow grow in?

Dwarf Arctic Willow is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dwarf Arctic Willow deer resistant?

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

When does Dwarf Arctic Willow bloom?

Dwarf Arctic Willow typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dwarf Arctic Willow need full sun?

Dwarf Arctic Willow does best in full sun (6+ hours).