Pussy Willow vs Buttonbush - TreeTime.ca

Pussy Willow vs Buttonbush

Salix discolor

Cephalanthus occidentalis

CUSTOM GROW

Pussy Willow
Buttonbush

Pussy Willow is a large shrub or small tree that produces catkins that are soft, silky, and silvery before leaves appear in the spring. This native willow prefers moist to wet soil.

Pussy Willow makes a beautiful accent tree, and its bright branches can be used for floral arrangements or basket making.

All willow are important to native pollinators each spring as they have higher amounts of pollen and nectar early each growing season when other food sources are scarce.

Buttonbush is a moisture loving shrub that provides year round interest.

It has round, fragrant flowers resembling small buttons or pincushions. The flowers transform into small reddish-brown fruit that persists into winter while the leaves take on shades of red in fall.

Providing essential food to bees, butterflies, and other insects, this shrub is versatile. Try it in your next shrub border.

Pussy Willow Quick Facts

Buttonbush Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $3.69 - SAVE UP TO 38%
Zone: 2a
Zone: 4a
Height: 7 m (23 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 1.5 m (5 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: any
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: low
Maintenance: medium


Flowers: large, white, spherical
Seeds: located within the catkins
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, NT, PE
Native to: ON, QC, NS, NB
Other Names: american willow