Silver Leaf Willow vs Kentucky Coffeetree - TreeTime.ca

Silver Leaf Willow vs Kentucky Coffeetree

Gymnocladus dioicus

Salix alba var. sericea

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Kentucky Coffeetree
Silver Leaf Willow

The Kentucky Coffeetree has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America! In the summer, its large green canopy provides shade. While in the winter, its leathery bean pods act as a decorative element against the sky as they rattle in the wind. Beautiful year-round, this tree is an elegant addition to any landscape.

Silver Leaf Willow has orangish bark and long, silvery grey leaves. Bees and other insects are attracted to its flowers.

Popular as an ornamental tree for parks, it is also used as a shelterbelt species. It may not be as cold hardy as some of the other willow varieties, however.

Kentucky Coffeetree Quick Facts

Silver Leaf Willow Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 2a
Height: 21 m (70 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: high

Toxicity: Uncooked pods are toxic to humans

Foliage: narrow-glossy
Fall colour: pale yellow
Bark: yellow-brown
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: yes


Native to: ON
Other Names: coffeetree
Other Names: white willow