Golden Willow vs Pussy Willow - TreeTime.ca

Golden Willow vs Pussy Willow

Salix discolor

Salix alba vitellina

Pussy Willow
Golden Willow

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.

Golden Willow is an attractive accent tree that's perfectly suited for those moist or wet areas on your property.

This fast growing tree has glossy narrow leaves that turn gold in fall, furrowed brown bark and showy gold branches that especially stand out in the winter.

Golden Willow is commonly used for windbreaks, shelterbelts, and ornamental planting. In addition to looking great, Golden Willow attracts a variety of birds and mammals with its twigs and buds.

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.

Note: do not plant near buildings or buried services.

Pussy Willow Quick Facts

Golden Willow Quick Facts

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Lowest Price: $2.99 - SAVE UP TO 14%
Zone: 2a
Zone: 2a
Height: 7 m (23 ft)
Height: 15 m (49 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium


Fall colour: golden yellow
Bark: bright yellow
Seeds: located within the catkins
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: yes
Catkins: yes


In row spacing: 2.4 - 3 m (8 - 10 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Native to: AB, BC, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, NT, PE
Other Names: american willow
Other Names: basket willow, blue willow, cricket bat willow, duck willow, velvet osier, white osier, white willow