Scouler's Willow
Salix scouleriana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
120"–360" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
SD
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Scouler's willow is a large native shrub that can reach 10-30 feet tall and wide at maturity. It produces catkins in early spring before the leaves emerge and thrives in moist conditions. This fast-growing deciduous shrub works well as a natural screen or windbreak.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scouler's 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 inappropriate for most residential landscapes
- Fast growth requires frequent pruning to control
- Can appear untidy without regular maintenance
Wildlife value
The early spring catkins provide crucial nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Birds often nest in the dense branching structure.
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 Scouler's Willow fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.