The pussy willow is most famous for its catkin-covered branches produced in the late winter or early spring. These handsome plants can be very useful in the garden, especially in problem areas with saturated soils. Read on to learn how to grow and care for this attractive deciduous shrub or tree.
What Is A Pussy Willow Plant?
The pussy willow, Salix caprea, is a large shrub or small tree of the Salicaceae family. This willow species is also commonly known as the goat willow, French pussy willow, European pussy willow, or great sallow.
These shrubs are native to central and western Asia, and Europe, where they grow in moist environments, like along riverbanks and near wetlands. They have an attractive rounded growth form and can grow to about 33ft (10m) tall and over 15ft (4.5m) wide.
This plant has leaves that are 1-5 inches (2.5-12.5cm) long and fairly broad for a willow. Larger leaves can reach about 3 inches (7.5cm) across. These plants are not usually known for their fall color but do sometimes put on a brief yellow display.Â
When they reach maturity, they generate seeds that are blown away by the wind. Catkins on Salix cinerea prefer to congregate around the tops of a pussy willow branch. Along the branches, leaf buds develop as well.
Pussy Willow Flowers
Pussy willows are dioecious plants which means that separate plants have different sexes. Both male and female plants produce attractive, 1-3 inch (2.5-7.5cm) long fluffy flower clusters known as catkins. The male plants are, however, the showier of the two sexes and the most popular with gardeners.
Catkins are composed of numerous tiny flowers without petals. The catkins produced by female flowers are green, whereas male flowers are greyish-pink, taking on a yellow color when pollen is produced.Â
These bushes are very attractive when they flower in the late winter to early spring and are usually among the earliest plants in the garden to come out of dormancy.
Similar Species
Salix caprea is not the only pussywillow, although it is the most popular species among gardeners. Some of the other useful species include:
American pussy willow – Salix discolor
This native species, which is also known as the glaucous willow, can be found growing wild in the northern states of the USA, through Canada, and into Alaska. It is a deciduous species that grows to about 20 feet (6m) tall.
Rose-gold pussy willow – Salix gracilistyla
This species produces pinkish catkins. There is a popular form known as ‘Melanostachys’ that produces attractive black flowers. It is native to China, Korea, and Japan in Asia.Â
Weeping pussy willow – Salix caprea ‘Pendula’
Like its relatives, the weeping variety is valued for its distinctive catkins that emerge in early spring. These catkins, covered in soft, silvery hairs, add a charming and fuzzy appearance to the branches, creating a visually appealing ornamental feature.
The weeping pussy willow, with its graceful cascading branches, stands out as a unique and elegant member of the diverse pussy willow family.
How To Grow Pussy Willows
If fertilized, the seeds from female catkins can be grown successfully. The key to success is to plant the seeds fresh after flowering in the late spring to mid-summer. They germinate quickly if planted under a thin layer of medium and kept moist. Â
The easiest way to propagate new plants is by cuttings. Take cuttings in the late fall and pot them over the winter. Those that show active new growth in the spring can then be planted. Cuttings of 8 inches to a foot (0.2-0.3m) usually develop roots easily if planted in the wet soil leaving only the top few inches exposed. Â
Pussy willows grow best in neutral, sandy soil with a good amount of organic material, such as peat moss, mixed into it. Because these plants are not drought resistant, they require moist soil at all times. Good drainage is also important to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
These shrubs are adapted to grow in environments with plenty of water to the root zone and will require regular watering unless grown in a naturally moist environment. They can be grown in warmer climates (USDA hardiness zones 4-8) and will grow best if planted in full sun, although they will also succeed in partial shade.
Plants in pots have restricted root growth. Keep them well-watered, especially if they’re in pots throughout the summer.
Fertilize pussy willows in early spring with a slow-release balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth. A liquid fertilizer is another option, although it is less popular.
Growing pussy willows can result in costly difficulties that can be avoided if the tree is put near water lines, sewer lines, or septic tank fields.
Pussy Willow Care And Maintenance
Pussy willow shrubs are naturally large shrubs or small trees that can easily outgrow their allotted space in the garden if allowed. Regular pruning is advised to keep these plants at a manageable size and encourage young plants to flower better.Â
These plants respond well to pruning and can be cut back hard to rejuvenate them when necessary. Remove diseased crossing or dead branches to keep things tidy, and thin out older stems to encourage bushier growth.
This can be done every year or left for 3 or 4 seasons, depending on the growth rate of your plant and how much space you have. Â
Unfortunately, pussy willow trees are quite susceptible to a variety of challenges, including insect infestation from wood-boring insects, scales, aphids, and lacebugs. They may also be prone to fungal diseases like leafspot and mildews.
Uses
Horticultural Uses
Pussy willows are very useful plants for marshy areas along streams and around ponds where other plants do not grow due to high soil moisture. The male plants make especially attractive specimens and provide interest very early in the season.Â
The thick spreading roots of the pussy willow make it an excellent choice for soil retention and erosion control on a slope.
They can also be grown in average moist garden conditions where they make a useful hedge if pruned heavily each year. These trees are also popular as bonsai specimens.
Human Uses
The young pussy willow branches with newly opened catkins are very popular in flower arrangements and can be forced in vases. Parts of these plants have been used medicinally as a painkiller due to the presence of a compound known as salicin.Â
Wildlife Uses
Deer and browsing animals will happily feed on the foliage of this pussy willow tree, so bear this in mind if they have access to your garden. These plants are visited by many butterflies and moths, and the male catkins provide a valuable source of pollen to bees.Â
FAQs
Can you use pussy willows for decoration?
Yes, pussy willows are commonly used for decoration in various floral arrangements, wreaths, and crafts. Their soft, fuzzy catkins add a unique and charming texture to bouquets and other decorative pieces.
What do pussy willows symbolize?
Symbolically, pussy willows are associated with several meanings, including the arrival of spring and the renewal of life. In some cultures, they are a symbol of growth, prosperity, and good fortune. Additionally, pussy willows are often used in religious traditions and festivals to represent new beginnings and the promise of a brighter future.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, growing pussy willow brings a touch of enchantment to gardens and landscapes with its iconic fuzzy catkins and elegant foliage. Pruning and proper care are key to maintaining a healthy and well-shaped pussy willow plant, while attention to environmental factors ensures optimal growth.
Pussy willows are also easy to grow and make a good choice to any plant collection. Whether used for ornamental purposes or in floral arrangements, the growing journey of pussy willows is a rewarding and visually pleasing experience for gardeners of all levels.
References
References
Brickell, C. & Joyce, D. Pruning And Training: What, When, And How To Prune
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*image by kotin/depositphotos
