Dwarf Arctic Willow | Salix purpurea ‘Nana’
The dwarf arctic willow is a compact cultivar of the basket willow. Produces wispy blue-green foliage and purple stems that shimmer in the slightest breeze. In the spring, reddish purple catkins emerge and attract pollinators. Often used in rain gardens or as a privacy screen. Low maintenance and thrives in moist heavy soils.
Hardiness Zones: 3-7
Sun Preference: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Types: Thrives in moist or wet alkaline soils. Tolerant of occasional flooding.
Size: Height 4-6′, Width 4-6′
Growth Rate: Fast
Austree Willow | Salix matsudana x alba ‘Austree’
The austree willow is a cross between the white willow and Chinese willow. Valued for its rapid growth and dense foliage that provides privacy and natural windbreaks. A hardy tree resistant to most pests, diseases and thrives in most soil types. This hybrid does not reproduce naturally through seeds or suckers, so there is no risk of invasive spreading.
Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Sun Preference: Full Sun
Soil Types: Thrives in moist or wet soils. Tolerant of occasional flooding.
Size: Height 60-70′, Width 15-30′
Growth Rate: Fast, Once established >60″ per year.
Weeping Willow | Salix bablylonica
The weeping willow is known for its dramatic sweeping branches and graceful figure. Usually, the first tree to leaf out in the spring. The pendulous branches produce slender green leaves and small green catkins that attract spring pollinators. Often used as a specimen tree in parks and estates.
Hardiness Zones: 4-9
Sun Preference: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil Types: Thrives in moist or wet acidic soils, grows well near water.
Size: Height 30-50′, Width 30-50′
Growth Rate: >24″ per year.