Meadow Willow
Salix petiolaris
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
36"–120" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CO, CT, IA, IL and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Meadow willow is a native shrub that grows 3-10 feet tall with slender branches and narrow leaves. It produces small catkins in spring and thrives in moist conditions, making it ideal for wet areas where other shrubs struggle. This fast-growing plant can spread to form colonies if left unmanaged.
In an HOA neighborhood
Meadow 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.
- Can appear scraggly and informal
- Tends to sucker and spread aggressively
- Winter appearance is stark with bare twigs
Wildlife value
Host plant for mourning cloak butterfly, viceroy butterfly.
The spring catkins provide early nectar for bees, beetles, and flies when few other flowers are available. Willow foliage supports numerous butterfly and moth caterpillars, making it valuable for birds seeking protein-rich prey.
Common questions
- How much sun does Meadow Willow need?
- Meadow Willow grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Meadow Willow bloom?
- Meadow Willow blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Meadow Willow native?
- Meadow Willow (Salix petiolaris) is native to CO, CT, IA, IL and 16 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Meadow Willow host?
- Meadow Willow is a larval host plant for mourning cloak butterfly and viceroy butterfly.
- Is Meadow Willow HOA-friendly?
- Meadow 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 Meadow Willow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz