Salix discolor
Known for its prolific fuzzy catkins that are displayed in late winter. Great for naturalized areas and does best in full sun. Grows in average to wet soil and will tolerate some standing water. Plant is dioecious meaning male and female are separate plants. Attracts pollinators. Important food source for pollinators early in the season.
Height : 6-20 feet
Spread : 5-15 feet
Light : Full sun to part shade
Water : Medium to wet
Soil : Sand, loam, clay
Zone : 3
Leaves : Upper leaf surface bluish-green while lower is whitened. Long, ovate shape
Stem : Bark is gray-brown which is often rough at base of trunk. New growth is reddish-brown and smooth
Flower : Produces florets that sport yellow flowers on a catkin that emerge in mid to late spring
Fruit : Female flowers “catkins” yield seeds with white thread-like fibers that allow for wind dispersal
Habit : Multi-stemmed shrub/shrubby tree with a rounded form