Species

Salix albaWhite Willow

1 other cultivar

‘Britzensis’Coral Bark Willow

shrub RHS Award

Golden Willow

Salix alba 'Golden Ness'

The Story

Plant Bio

A cultivar of white willow, typically grown as a multi-stemmed shrub and coppiced annually for its brilliant golden-yellow to orange-red young stems in winter.

Golden Ness is prized for its intensely colored young stems which provide spectacular color and interest to the winter garden, especially when planted in groups.

Uses & Benefits:

Golden Ness offers striking golden foliage that brightens any landscape and provides visual interest year-round.

It acts as an effective windbreak and helps stabilize soil on slopes.

Provides habitat and food for pollinators and birds, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesSalix albaWhite Willow

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

96 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

20+ years

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck cuttings into moist soil in early spring for propagation.
Mist young plants regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant seedlings when they reach 6 inches tall.
Prune back in late winter to encourage bushy growth.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use fresh cuttings for higher rooting success and keep soil consistently moist.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
Prune to shape and remove dead wood ✂️
Fertilize in early spring for healthy growth 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t prune during the growing season to prevent stress ❌
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil ❌
Don’t neglect winter protection in colder zones ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeVertical accent in garden bedsErosion control along slopes

Companion Plants

Salvia SedumLavender Achillea Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Willow questions

What zones can Golden Willow grow in?

Golden 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 Golden Willow deer resistant?

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

When does Golden Willow bloom?

Golden 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 Golden Willow need full sun?

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