White Willow
Salix alba
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag White Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
NE
Pollinators
bees, beetles
White willow is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree with graceful, drooping branches and narrow silvery-green leaves. It produces small catkins in spring and prefers moist soils, making it ideal for wet areas where other trees struggle. This tree can become quite massive at maturity, reaching 30-60 feet tall with an equally wide spread.
In an HOA neighborhood
White 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 mature size inappropriate for most residential lots
- Aggressive root system can damage foundations and plumbing
- Messy with falling branches and catkins
Wildlife value
The spring catkins provide early nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. The tree also supports various bird species and provides habitat for wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does White Willow need?
- White Willow grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does White Willow bloom?
- White Willow blooms in April and May.
- Where is White Willow native?
- White Willow (Salix alba) is native to NE, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is White Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag White Willow as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does White Willow attract?
- White Willow draws bees and beetles.
- Is White Willow HOA-friendly?
- White 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 White 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