Types Of Pussy Willow. While the pussy willow is definitely a relative of the willow family, it often grows more as a shrub. Older specimens do become trees, but they tend to have weaker branches that don’t support much weight.

Pussy willow is a name given to many of the smaller species of the genus Salix (willows and sallows) when their furry catkins are in early spring.These species include (among many others): Goat willow or goat sallow (Salix caprea), a small tree native to northern Europe and northwest Asia.Grey willow or grey sallow (Salix cinerea), a small tree native to northern Europe.

Since pussy willow trees are wetland plants in the wild, they could serve a useful purpose for those of you who suffer from poor yard drainage. Many plants don’t like to grow in such spots. Many plants don’t like to grow in such spots.

Growing Requirements for Pussy Willow Trees Pussy Willows are hardy in USDA zones 4-8. They grow well in almost any soil but it is a good idea to supplement the native soil with peat moss, leaf mold or compost. Pussy Willows require full sun to thrive,

Pussy Willow Basket A glass vase, sheet moss, floral wire, and pussy willow stems are all the materials you need to make a rustic pussy willow basket. This adorable, decorative DIY is a cinch to make in just two easy steps.

When growing a pussy willow tree, you may have expensive problems that can be avoided if the tree is planted near water lines, sewer lines or septic tank fields. Pussy willows have deep spreading roots that can be considered invasive when planted in the wrong place.

Pussy willows (like other trees in the willow family) produce a natural rooting hormone that encourages them to root quickly. In fact, if you put cutting from other plants in with the pussy willows that are rooting, the other plants are likely to root faster due to the presence of the rooting hormone.

Pussy willow plants can be male or female. Male plants produce the most ornamental catkins, which may be white, silvery-gray or yellowish. Female pussy willows have smaller, less showy catkins.

The American Pussy Willow is a great example of how a native plant provides habitat and supports native wildlife.

2. Select a site for your pussy willow plant. Keep in mind that the shrub can become quite large and the roots spread rapidly. Choose a site well away from the foundation of your house, sidewalks