Pussy Willow

$14.97

The branches of the Pussy Willow grow pearly gray catkins that can be cut for elegant dried arrangements.  Grows well in areas that are too moist for other trees.

• Scientific Name: Salix discolor
• USDA Zone: 4 – 8
• Average Height: 15’
• Average Width: 12’
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade

According to an old Polish legend, many springtimes ago a mother cat was crying at the bank of the river in which her kittens were drowning. The willows at the river’s edge longed to help her, so they swept their long graceful branches into the waters to rescue the tiny kittens who had fallen into the river while chasing butterflies. The kittens gripped on tightly to their branches and were safely brought to shore. Each springtime since, goes the legend, the willow branches sprout tiny fur-like buds at their tips where the tiny kittens once clung.

Lucy, the nursery kitty

Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Check the light preferences for your plant and choose your plot accordingly. Even if you have the perfect soil and ideal location, you still need to choose the right time of the year depending on what you are planting.

When you receive your plant, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of the plant to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets. Add a bit of slow-release fertilizer to help new plants to grow quickly. Add the recommended amount per fertilizer instructions. Be sure to water your plants until they are established. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Additionally, certain plants may need staking. Whenever they become too heavy to stand on their own, add bamboo stakes for the plants to lean against or tie up for support.
Prune plants as needed to encourage growth. If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your Pussy Willow and your time in the garden!