Goat willow - Salix caprea (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Goat willow

Goat willow (Salix caprea) is a small deciduous tree or large shrub also known as pussy willow. Goat willow is native to Europe and western and central Asia. This species is not considered a good source of timber, as its wood is brittle. Salix caprea means "goat." This species is susceptible to disease mediated by insects and microbes.

Scientific classification

Species

Goat willow (Salix caprea)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Late winter

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer

Harvest Time

Green

Fruit Color

Green, Yellow, Silver, Pink

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Goat willow

Distribution of Goat willow

Distribution Map

Goat willow, originating in a broad range of temperate regions across the Northern Hemisphere, is native to Europe, Asia, and regions in the northeast of North America. It has been introduced and is now found in parts of South America and South Africa. The species is also widely cultivated beyond its natural range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland garden canopy, secondary, ground cover, hedge

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The silky, grey-colored catkins that are produced in the spring by goat willow have long been admired, with this tree planted for ornamental purposes in parks, woodland areas, and wildlife gardens. This tree will flourish in moist ground, tolerating saturated soil, so planting alongside ponds and streams is not an issue. It is prized for being low maintenance and is excellent as a windbreaker or screen.

Symbolism

Sadness and mourning

Interesting Facts

In northern latitudes, where palms do not grow, some churchgoers carry branches of goat willow on Palm Sunday. Goat willow has long been used in pagan rituals, too. The male catkins are silver at first, then become golden when they are ripe with pollen. Druids recognize this transformation, which they call “sunshine fire.”

Name Story

Goat willow: Goat willow is so called because in Northern Europe, its leaves were used as goat fodder. Its other common name, pussy willow, comes from the fact that the male catkins are soft and furry and resemble cats’ paws.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Goat willow, including the following common varieties :

Goat willow 'Kilmarnock'

Quickly Identify Goat willow

Oval to round leaves with soft texture, dark green color, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long.

Showy male catkins in early spring, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, densely packed with yellow stamens.

Prominent catkins are silver or yellow depending on the gender, appearing before leaves.

Upper leaf surface glossy and smooth, lower surface gray and pubescent.

Fine serrated leaf edges, visible veins, oval shape with pointed tip and rounded base.

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Care Guide for Goat willow

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Goat willow prefers moist, humid environments and requires consistent moisture with occasional drought tolerance. Water every three weeks, considering natural rainfall, which affects dormancy and water uptake in this deciduous species.

Fertilize: For best growth, goat willow requires balanced NPK fertilizers applied in early spring and optionally late summer. Seasonal changes affect frequency, with less needed during dormancy. Water thoroughly after fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption and avoid root burn.

Pruning: Goat willow is a versatile deciduous shrub with smooth grey bark and attractive catkins. Prune in late spring to promote healthy growth, remove dead branches, and improve air circulation. Regular maintenance enhances structure and flowering. Consult reputable sources for detailed care guidance.

Propagation: Goat willow is a deciduous shrub from Europe and Asia, known for its resilience. Propagation through hardwood cuttings from healthy branches, with at least two buds, encourages robust growth. Planting cuttings in moist soil and maintaining moisture are crucial for successful root development.

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Images of Goat willow

Distribution of Goat willow

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Goat willow

Care Guide for Goat willow

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