TreesSalix caprea
Goat Willow
The goat willow is a fast-growing small tree that stands out in early spring with its silver-coloured, velvety catkins that later turn golden-yellow with pollen. It is one of the first trees to provide food for bees after winter. The tree grows in virtually any soil type.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 600–1000 cm
- Spread
- 400–800 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 4–8
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, butterflies, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in sun to partial shade in any reasonably moist soil. The tree is undemanding and grows quickly. Bear in mind that willows have a shallow root system — do not plant too close to drains or foundations.
Pruning tips
Prune after flowering in late spring. The tree tolerates hard pruning and can be maintained as a pollard. Remove dead wood and unwanted shoots regularly.
Good companions
TreesBetula pendula
Silver Birch
Silver Birch is a graceful, fast-growing tree with striking white bark that peels in thin layers over the years. The fine, pendulous branches give the tree an airy, elegant silhouette. In autumn, the small triangular leaves turn bright yellow.
TreesCorylus avellana
Common Hazel
The hazel is a native large shrub or small tree that enlivens the garden as early as February and March with long, golden-yellow catkins — one of the first food sources for bees after winter. In autumn, hazelnuts follow in their characteristic green husks. Hazel grows multi-stemmed and makes a beautiful native hedge or specimen.
ShrubsSambucus nigra
Elder
Elder is a native large shrub or small tree bearing flat, creamy-white flower clusters in June that release a delightfully sweet fragrance. In autumn, glossy dark purple berries follow, beloved by birds. Both flowers and berries are edible and have been used for centuries in elderflower cordial and elderberry juice.