Mountain Willow
Salix eastwoodiae
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
24"–72" H × 24"–72" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain willow is a native shrub that forms a rounded, medium-sized presence in the landscape. It produces small catkin flowers from late spring through summer and requires consistent moisture to thrive. The deciduous foliage provides seasonal interest but leaves the plant bare in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain 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.
- Bare winter appearance looks unfinished
- High water needs conflict with drought-tolerant landscaping expectations
- Informal growth habit appears unmanicured
Wildlife value
This willow supports bees and beetles during its extended bloom period from May through July. The catkin flowers are particularly valuable for early season pollinators when few other plants are flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mountain Willow need?
- Mountain Willow grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Mountain Willow bloom?
- Mountain Willow blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Mountain Willow native?
- Mountain Willow (Salix eastwoodiae) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Mountain Willow attract?
- Mountain Willow draws bees and beetles.
- Is Mountain Willow HOA-friendly?
- Mountain 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 Mountain 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