Photo: Naturforvaltning Lørenskog kommuneCC BY 4.0

2 named cultivars

tree

White Willow

Salix alba

The Story

Plant Bio

Fast-growing tree with long, narrow leaves that turn yellow in the fall.

Widely adapted to wet soils, making it suitable for wetland restoration projects.

Uses & Benefits:

Salix alba adds elegant, airy texture to landscapes with its graceful branches and silvery foliage.

Provides erosion control along riverbanks and streams.

Supports biodiversity by providing habitat for insects and birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

780 inches

Width

780 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist to wet soil

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

40-75 years

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil.
Tuck cuttings or young plants into the soil, ensuring roots are covered.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity for 2-3 weeks.
Water deeply during dry periods to keep soil moist.
Prune to shape and remove dead branches once established after 1 year.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Plant in early spring for best root development and rapid growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune annually to maintain shape
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid waterlogging the soil ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
Avoid planting in shade for optimal growth

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 hedgeWaterfront borderNatural privacy screen

Companion Plants

Juncus IrisPhragmites Carex Salix integra

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Willow questions

What zones can White Willow grow in?

White 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 White Willow deer resistant?

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

When does White Willow bloom?

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

Does White Willow need full sun?

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