Silky Willow
Salix sericea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
48"–120" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Silky willow is a native shrub that thrives in wet soils and full sun locations. It produces early spring catkins that are valuable for pollinators when few other flowers are available. This fast-growing shrub works well for naturalizing wet areas and erosion control.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silky 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.
- Forms aggressive thickets that spread rapidly
- Requires constant moisture and looks stressed in typical yard conditions
- Very informal appearance that lacks structure
Wildlife value
Host plant for mourning cloak butterfly.
The early catkins provide crucial nectar and pollen for bees, beetles, and flies in April and May when few other plants are blooming. Willow species also host numerous butterfly and moth caterpillars.
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 Silky Willow fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.