Bebb Willow
Salix bebbiana
Last reviewed: July 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Bebb Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
120"–360" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bebb willow is a large native shrub that forms dense thickets along streams and wetlands. It produces fuzzy catkins in spring before the leaves emerge and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bebb Willow takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Grows extremely large and spreads aggressively
- Requires wet conditions that may create drainage issues
- Natural growth habit appears uncontrolled and wild
Wildlife value
The early spring catkins provide crucial nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Birds use the dense branching for nesting sites.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bebb Willow need?
- Bebb Willow grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Bebb Willow bloom?
- Bebb Willow blooms in April and May.
- Where is Bebb Willow native?
- Bebb Willow (Salix bebbiana) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Bebb Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Bebb Willow as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Bebb Willow attract?
- Bebb Willow draws bees and beetles.
- Is Bebb Willow HOA-friendly?
- Bebb Willow takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bebb Willow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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