willow tree or shrub

This family includes both deciduous trees and shrubs from the fuzzy spring blooming Pussy Willow to the graceful, thin branched Dapple Willow (a.k.a. Hakuru Nishiki). Most willow varieties have vigorous growth habits, thin to curling medium green, gray-blue, golden or variegated foliage. Contorted and Pussy Willow branches are often cut and used in fresh flower arrangements and mixed container gardens. An excellent contrast in the landscape with evergreens and other flowering shrubs like Spirea. Thrives in moist to wet sites. Browse our selection of willow tree and shrub varieties online.

Plant in well-drained to moist, amended soil. Water well after planting; maintain 1” of water once a week the first year. Prune heavily in late winter/early spring down to 1/2 its size or more for best foliage color and compact habit. Shear at any time. Feed at least twice during the growing season with a slow release fertilizer in early spring and again mid-summer. Follow label instructions. Mulch 2″ to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect against extremes of soil temperature.