Geyer Willow
Salix geyeriana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Geyer Willow (Salix geyeriana) is a perennial shrub native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states. It blooms in May and June. The flowers draw bees and beetles.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Geyer Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
24"–120" H × 24"–120" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
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Geyer willow is a shrub that forms dense colonies along streams and wetlands. It produces small catkins in late spring and early summer, followed by narrow green leaves that turn yellow in fall. This fast-growing willow requires consistent moisture and full sun to thrive.
Growing Geyer Willow
Grow Geyer Willow in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 24 to 120 inches tall and spread 24 to 120 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Geyer 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 by suckers
- Can look scraggly without regular pruning
- High water needs may conflict with xeriscape requirements
Wildlife value
The early spring catkins provide crucial nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Birds often nest in the dense branching structure, and the foliage supports various butterfly and moth caterpillars.
Common questions
- How much sun does Geyer Willow need?
- Geyer Willow grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Geyer Willow bloom?
- Geyer Willow blooms in May and June.
- Where is Geyer Willow native?
- Geyer Willow (Salix geyeriana) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Geyer Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Geyer Willow as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Geyer Willow attract?
- Geyer Willow draws bees and beetles.
- Is Geyer Willow HOA-friendly?
- Geyer 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 vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Geyer Willow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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