Pussy Willow Shrub - Salix discolor

Bareroot plant

The Pussy Willow tree, scientifically known as Salix discolor, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to North America, Europe, and Asia. Here's a detailed description along with planting instructions:

Description:
Appearance: Pussy Willow typically grows as a multi-stemmed shrub but can be trained into a small tree with pruning. It typically reaches heights of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) tall, though some varieties may grow taller.
Leaves: The leaves are simple, alternate, and lance-shaped, with finely serrated margins. They are medium green in color and have a silky texture when young.
Flowers: One of the most distinctive features of Pussy Willow is its catkins, which are soft, furry, and grayish-silver in color. These catkins appear in early spring before the leaves emerge and are a welcome sign of the changing seasons.
Fruit: After flowering, female Pussy Willow plants develop small, inconspicuous capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds. These capsules split open in late spring to release the seeds, which are dispersed by wind.
Planting Instructions:
Climate and Location:

Pussy Willow thrives in moist to wet soil conditions and is commonly found along riverbanks, marshes, and other low-lying areas. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Choose a planting location that receives full to partial sunlight. While Pussy Willow can tolerate some shade, it typically performs best in sunnier locations.
Soil Preparation:

Before planting, prepare the soil by amending it with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve its fertility and structure.
Pussy Willow prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate periodically flooded conditions. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist, especially during the first growing season after planting.
Planting the Trees:

Plant Pussy Willow trees in the early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are moderate.
Dig a hole that is slightly wider and just as deep as the root ball of the plant.
Gently remove the tree from its container or loosen the roots if it's a bare-root plant.
Place the tree in the center of the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots to remove air pockets.
Water the tree thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
Spacing:

Space Pussy Willow trees at least 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters) apart to allow room for growth and airflow between plants.
Mulching and Watering:

Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the tree to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature.
Water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Pay attention to soil moisture levels, particularly during the first growing season after planting, to ensure the tree becomes established.
Pruning and Maintenance:

Pussy Willow trees typically require minimal pruning. You can prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches and to maintain a tidy shape.
Fertilization is generally not necessary, as Pussy Willow is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils. However, if the tree shows signs of nutrient deficiency, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
By following these planting instructions and providing proper care, you can successfully grow Pussy Willow trees and enjoy their unique catkins and attractive foliage in your landscape.