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// SPECIES PROFILE · SHRUB · NATIVE

Pussy willow

Salix discolor

Pussy willow (Salix discolor) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes MO — verified against the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center native distribution database. Hardy in zones 2a–9a. Mature size 10'–25'. Blooms Feb–Mar.

// QUICK FACTS
Family
—
Group
shrub
Native range
Native to 27 U.S. states, including CT, DE, IA, IL, IN, KY…
USDA hardiness
Zones 2a–9a
Mature size
10'–25'
Sun
Full sun
Water
High · moisture-loving
Bloom
Feb–Mar
Wildlife value
Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role
native species profile
Pussy willow (Salix discolor)
Salix discolor — Pussy willow. Photo via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Pussy willow (Salix discolor) is a shrub in the — family. Native range includes MO — verified against the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center native distribution database. Hardy in zones 2a–9a. Mature size 10'–25'. Blooms Feb–Mar.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, pussy willow pairs naturally with: American Plum (Prunus americana), Smooth Sumac (Rhus glabra), Great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida), Texan great ragweed (Ambrosia trifida var. texana).

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