Grey Willow
Salix cinerea
Also listed as Salix acuminata, Capraea acuminata
Also known as Grey Sallow, Common Sallow, Gray Willow
Climate Match for your location
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A vigorous deciduous shrub with soft grey-green catkins in early spring and slender leaves. Thrives in wet soils and makes a good windbreak or screening plant.
Why grow it
Grey willow establishes quickly in waterlogged sites where many woody plants struggle, making it useful for riparian restoration or poorly drained areas. Compared to other willows, it tolerates slightly drier conditions while still preferring moist soil, and its dense branching provides effective screening or windbreak cover. Early catkin production also offers early-season pollen and nectar for insects.
Watch out for
Young growth is attractive to browsing deer and rabbits; fencing or tree guards may be needed in areas with high wildlife pressure. The plant can become leggy or sparse if not pruned, requiring periodic cutting to maintain density as a screen or hedge.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A vigorous deciduous shrub with soft grey-green catkins in early spring and slender leaves. Thrives in wet soils and makes a good windbreak or screening plant.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Grey Willow grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Grey willow establishes quickly in waterlogged sites where many woody plants struggle, making it useful for riparian restoration or poorly drained areas. Compared to other willows, it tolerates slightly drier conditions while still preferring moist soil, and its dense branching provides effective screening or windbreak cover. Early catkin production also offers early-season pollen and nectar for insects.
Watch out for
Young growth is attractive to browsing deer and rabbits; fencing or tree guards may be needed in areas with high wildlife pressure. The plant can become leggy or sparse if not pruned, requiring periodic cutting to maintain density as a screen or hedge.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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