Narrowleaf Willow
Salix exigua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
36"–240" H × 36"–120" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Narrowleaf willow is a fast-growing native shrub that forms dense thickets along streams and wetlands. It produces small catkins in spring and has narrow, silvery-green leaves that flutter in the breeze. This moisture-loving plant can reach substantial size and spreads readily through underground roots.
In an HOA neighborhood
Narrowleaf 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 suckers
- Can look unkempt without regular pruning
- Requires consistent moisture which may cause overwatering issues
Wildlife value
The spring catkins provide early nectar for bees and flies when few other flowers are available. Dense growth provides nesting habitat for birds and cover for small wildlife.
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.
Does Narrowleaf Willow fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.