Salix caprea 'Select' - Goat or French
Pussy Willow, Great Sallow
This is one of the larger willows not associated
with water. The natural habitat is the woodland
edge and in the lowlands. In early spring, goat
willow or great sallow produces an abundance of
nectar and pollen on the many fat catkins
(see them developing at the leaf junctions
in the picture). Bees are greatly attracted to
these catkins. This is one of the famous pussy
willows of the floral trade.
Description: large shrub or small tree;
6-9 m (20-30'); reddish-brown new growth; leaves broadly elliptic
or obovate, grey-green
Conditions: full sun to light shade; drought
tolerant; widely adaptable
Coldest zone: 3 (find your
zone; further info on plant hardiness)
Comparison of willow
stems and leaves
Lists of various willow
uses