Pussy Willows, primarily Salix discolor, are known for their fuzzy catkins that emerge in late winter or early spring, providing early seasonal interest. Pink Pussy Willow varieties, like Salix gracilistyla ‘Mount Aso’, offer rosy-pink catkins, adding unique color and signaling spring’s arrival.
Characteristics of Pink Pussy Willows
Pink Pussy Willows, such as Salix gracilistyla ‘Mount Aso’, feature rosy-pink catkins that mature to silvery-gray, often with yellow pollen. These fuzzy structures appear on bare stems before leaves unfurl. Their foliage is typically bluish-gray, turning deep green, then yellow in fall, offering multi-season appeal.
They grow as multi-stemmed shrubs, sometimes developing into small trees, with a bushy, arching form. They typically reach 6 to 15 feet tall and 4 to 12 feet wide, making them versatile for various garden settings.
Planting and Growing Pink Pussy Willows
Pink Pussy Willows thrive in full sun (six or more hours daily), which promotes robust growth and abundant catkin production. They can tolerate partial shade (three to four hours of direct sun or dappled light).
They prefer moist, well-drained, fertile, loamy soils that maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. They tolerate wet conditions, suiting damp garden spots or areas near water. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (6.0-7.0) is preferred. Incorporating organic matter improves fertility and moisture retention.
Consistent watering is important, especially for young plants during their first one to two years. Mature plants need regular watering during dry spells to maintain vigor and catkin production, as prolonged drought can reduce their health.
They are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, tolerating temperate conditions with cold winters and high humidity. Fertilization is minimal; a light application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring can benefit established plants. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote leaf growth over catkin development.
Plant in fall to allow root establishment before the growing season. Spring or summer planting is also possible with consistent watering during dry periods in the first year. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Position the plant so the base is level with the ground, then backfill and water thoroughly. Space multiple shrubs 10 to 20 feet apart to allow for mature size.
Pruning and Shaping
Pruning maintains shape, promotes healthy growth, and encourages abundant catkin production. Removing dead or damaged branches and thinning crowded areas improves air circulation and light penetration, benefiting overall plant health. Pruning also manages size, as they can grow large if left unpruned.
Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth. This allows enjoyment of catkins before cutting and stimulates new growth for the next season’s catkins. For decorative use, cut branches with well-formed but not fully opened catkins.
Coppice Pruning
Coppice pruning involves cutting the plant back severely, often to 6 to 12 inches from the ground, every few years. This encourages many long, straight branches with catkins, desirable for floral arrangements.
Shape Pruning
Shape pruning can be done more frequently to maintain a fuller, shapely shrub. This involves removing older, thicker, gray-colored branches and cutting back younger branches growing outside the desired shape or inward.
Propagation Techniques
Pink Pussy Willows propagate easily from cuttings due to natural rooting hormone. Both hardwood (taken when dormant, late autumn/early spring) and softwood (new growth, late May-August) cuttings can be used.
Select a healthy branch, about pencil thickness and at least 1 foot long. For hardwood cuttings, cut the bottom just below a node and scrape bark off the bottom inch. Remove most leaves, leaving some at the top.
Rooting in Soil
Insert the cut end several inches deep, ensuring a few nodes are above ground, and keep the soil consistently damp. Roots typically form within 6 to 8 weeks.
Rooting in Water
Place the cutting in a glass with 6 to 8 inches of water, changing it regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and once 3 to 4 inches long, transplant to soil.
Addressing Common Issues
Pink Pussy Willows can encounter pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. Regular inspection aids early detection and management.
Pests
Aphids cluster on new growth, causing leaf distortion. Borers tunnel into stems, leading to wilting and dieback. Caterpillars can defoliate plants. Manage with manual removal, insecticidal soap, or neem oil.
Diseases
Powdery mildew appears as a white coating on leaves. Leaf spots are discolored areas, often fungal or bacterial. Cankers are dead bark areas, often fungal, which can girdle branches. Improve air circulation by pruning, avoid overhead watering, and remove affected plant parts to manage these issues.
Environmental Stressors
Yellowing leaves often indicate watering issues or nutrient imbalances. Wilting branches can signal insufficient watering or pest infestations. While Pussy Willows tolerate moist conditions, waterlogged soil can lead to root rot. Their roots seek water and can be problematic if planted near septic tanks or water lines.