Scouler's Willow
Salix scouleriana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Scouler's Willow is a native shrub found in western North America that blooms in April and May. This moisture-loving plant attracts bees and beetles as important pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Scouler's Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
120"–360" H × 60"–180" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
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.
Growing Scouler's Willow
Grow Scouler's Willow in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 120 to 360 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
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.
Common questions
- When does Scouler's Willow bloom?
- Scouler's Willow typically blooms during April and May, producing catkins before the leaves fully emerge.
- What pollinators visit Scouler's Willow?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Scouler's Willow, visiting the early spring catkins for nectar and pollen.
- Where is Scouler's Willow native?
- Scouler's Willow is native to western North America, including areas of South Dakota and extending westward to the Pacific Coast.
- What growing conditions does Scouler's Willow prefer?
- This willow thrives in moist to wet soils and can tolerate full sun to partial sun conditions, making it ideal for riparian areas and wet meadows.
- Is Scouler's Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Scouler's Willow as toxic to livestock.
- Is Scouler's Willow HOA-friendly?
- Scouler's 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 Scouler's 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