Species pussy willow

pussy willow

Salix caprea

Pussy willow (Salix caprea) is a small, deciduous tree with grey-green leaves, soft, fuzz-covered shoots and furry catkins in the springtime. It grows in moist soils, typically near streams or wetlands in areas of Europe, Asia and North America. Its height is typically between 6 and 25 feet. In late winter or early spring the male-catkins become visible and by late spring the female-catkins mature, allowing pollination. The flowers are a highlight of any early-spring garden. In fall, small, yellow-green fruits are produced. Pussy willow is a low-maintenance tree which adds texture and interest to the landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Pinkish gray (male); green (female) Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

watering

Pussy willow needs water once or twice a week in order to thrive. The frequency of watering should be increased or decreased depending on the season and the conditions of the soil. In summer, water more often, approximately every 3 to 4 days depending on the temperature and the plant's growth. In spring and autumn, plants should be watered about once a week if soil has become dry. In winter, water sparingly and don't water if temperatures are below freezing. As for amount, water well until water is flowing from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering.

sunlight

Pussy willow (Salix caprea) is a plant species that prefers full sun. It should be given at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If the plant is receiving less than 6 hours, the best time for it to receive direct sunlight is during mid-morning and mid-afternoon when the sun is at its strongest. During the hottest part of the day, the sun's rays may be too intense and can potentially burn the plant. Additionally, if the plant is located in a particularly hot or dry climate, it may be beneficial to give it some afternoon shade in order to protect it from dehydrating or overheating.

pruning

Pussy willow (Salix caprea) should be pruned in late winter or early spring, while the plant is dormant. This timing will help promote vigorous and healthy growth well into the summer months when the flowering and new growth begin. Prune out any dead, broken, or weak branches, as well as any branches that are crowding or blocking each other. It is best to prune just beyond the swollen buds or "paws" of the branches. When pruning, remove approximately 1-third of the overall length of each branch to maintain a balanced and healthy shape. Avoid severe pruning as this could lead to stunted growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Pussy willow typically starts flowering in March.

Hardiness Map