Pussy Willow
Salix discolor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Salix discolor (Pussy Willow) is a native deciduous shrub found across northern and eastern United States, producing distinctive fuzzy silver catkins in March and April before leaves emerge.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Pussy Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
120"–240" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr
Native to
CO, CT, DE, IA and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Pussy willow is a fast-growing native shrub known for its fuzzy gray catkins that appear in early spring before the leaves emerge. It grows quite large and prefers consistently moist soil, making it ideal for low-lying areas or near water features. The shrub has a somewhat informal, spreading growth habit that requires regular pruning to maintain shape.
Growing Pussy Willow
Grow Pussy Willow in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 120 to 240 inches tall and spread 60 to 180 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pussy 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.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm typical residential spaces
- Informal growth habit can appear unruly without frequent pruning
- Requires consistently wet soil which may create maintenance issues
Wildlife value
Host plant for mourning cloak butterfly.
The early spring catkins provide crucial nectar and pollen for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Birds also use the dense branching structure for nesting and shelter.
Common questions
- When does Pussy Willow bloom?
- Pussy Willow blooms in March and April, producing its characteristic fuzzy catkins before the leaves appear in early spring.
- Where is Pussy Willow native?
- Pussy Willow is native to 31 states across the northern and eastern United States, from Maine to Montana and south to North Carolina and Colorado.
- What pollinators visit Pussy Willow?
- Pussy Willow attracts bees and beetles, providing an important early nectar source when few other plants are blooming in early spring.
- What growing conditions does Pussy Willow prefer?
- Pussy Willow thrives in moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial shade conditions, making it suitable for wetland edges and rain gardens.
- Is Pussy Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Pussy Willow as toxic to livestock.
- Is Pussy Willow HOA-friendly?
- Pussy 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 Pussy 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