Laurel Leaf Willow vs Pussy Willow - TreeTime.ca

Laurel Leaf Willow vs Pussy Willow

Salix pentandra

Salix discolor

Laurel Leaf Willow
Pussy Willow

Laurel Leaf Willow is a round-shaped tree with attractive dark green leaves.

This cold hardy tree can withstand bitter winters and still put on lots of growth every summer. Laurel Leaf Willow prefers moist to wet ground and full sun, though it can tolerate partial shade too. This species is also known as one of the more salt-tolerant species for those with saline soils.

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.

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.

Laurel Leaf Willow Quick Facts

Pussy Willow Quick Facts

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Zone: 2b
Zone: 2a
Height: 15 m (49 ft)
Height: 7 m (23 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: fast
Life span: medium
Life span: long
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high


Foliage: long, glossy
Seeds: within the capsules
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: bay willow, bay-leaf willow, laurel willow
Other Names: american willow