Salix caprea 'Select'

Common names: Goat Willow, French Pussy Willow, Great Sallow

Description: large shrub or small tree; 6-9 m (20-30'); reddish-brown new growth; leaves broadly elliptic or obovate, grey-green

Conditions: full sun to light shade; drought tolerant; widely adaptable

Coldest Zone: 3 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

This is one of the larger willows not associated with water. The natural habitat is the woodland edge and in the lowlands. In early spring, goat willow or great sallow produces an abundance of nectar and pollen on the many fat catkins (see them developing at the leaf junctions in the picture). Bees are greatly attracted to these catkins. This is one of the famous pussy willows of the floral trade.

Sizes available: bundle of 10 cuttings; plugs

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This picture was taken in October and is of a group of two year old plants that are coppiced in the late winter every year.

Comparison of willow stems and leaves

Lists of various willow uses