Pussy Willow, Goat Willow – Salix caprea

• Large shrub/small tree, 10-20’ tall and wide.
• Blooms in March.
• 2 star nectar, 4 star pollen source for honey bees.
• Bumble, mining and sweat bees; wasps, syrphid and tachinid flies also visit the flowers.
• Sun to part shade; likes moist to wet areas, but will tolerate drier soils.
• Very adaptable; often requires vigorous pruning to keep in check.
• They are separate male and female plants; select a male for abundant, nutritious yellow pollen, both male and female plants produce nectar.

Of this plant, Peter Lindtner states, “If I had a place for only one small tree in my garden, I would plant this one.  It is a pleasure to watch bees collecting pollen and packing it into pellets, happily buzzing from one flower to another.”