Description
Pussy willow (Salix discolor) is a multiple trunk shrub or small tree. Male trees have grey, silky catkins that emerge in the spring before the leaves come out. The female trees have smaller greenish catkins. Pussy willow grows well in moist to wet soil. Caution needs to be taken when planting pussy willow near any drain field or septic system, as the roots will seek out the pipes and drains! This can be a great shrub to plant to control erosion in susceptible areas.
Pussy willow is a great shrub to take cuttings from in late winter or early spring to bring in and force. The fuzzy buds pop out within a few weeks! Pussy willow tolerates deer and can even be planted under black walnut. Historically this was used as a medicine.
