Red Willow
Salix laevigata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Red Willow (Salix laevigata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
240"–600" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Salix laevigata (Red Willow) is a large native tree that grows 20-50 feet tall with a broad canopy. It features smooth grayish bark, long narrow leaves, and produces catkins in spring. Red Willow thrives in wet areas and along waterways.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red 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.
- Extremely large size unsuitable for standard residential lots
- High water needs increase maintenance requirements
- Aggressive root system can damage hardscaping and plumbing
Wildlife value
Host plant for western tiger swallowtail.
Red Willow supports many native bees and beetles during its spring flowering season. Birds often use the trees for nesting and the foliage hosts numerous butterfly and moth larvae.
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 Red Willow fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.