Dune Willow
Salix hookeriana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Dune Willow (Salix hookeriana) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Dune Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
48"–180" H × 48"–180" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
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Dune willow is a fast-growing native shrub that forms dense colonies through underground runners. It produces fuzzy catkin flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge and thrives in consistently moist soils. This coastal species can grow quite large and spreads readily, making it better suited for naturalistic landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dune 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.
- Spreads aggressively through runners
- Can become quite large and unruly
- Looks bare and scraggly in winter
Wildlife value
The early spring catkins provide crucial nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Dense growth habit offers excellent nesting sites and cover for birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Dune Willow need?
- Dune Willow grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Dune Willow bloom?
- Dune Willow blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Dune Willow native?
- Dune Willow (Salix hookeriana) is native to CA, OR, WA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- Is Dune Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Dune Willow as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Dune Willow attract?
- Dune Willow draws bees and beetles.
- Is Dune Willow HOA-friendly?
- Dune 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Dune Willow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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