Silky Willow
Thrives in Zones 5-8
Fast-growing, provides quick privacy
Hardy in various soil conditions
Low maintenance, easy to care for
We do not ship this plant to the following states:
NJ. OH. CT. FL.Ships in
November 2025Silky Willow Tree for Sale | Salix sericea
The Silky Willow (Salix sericea) is a deciduous shrub native to eastern USA. This shrub loves moist environments and grows naturally in wetlands, and along stream and river banks. It is considered a shrub or a small tree as it can grow fairly large. Due to its fast-growing nature and attractive form, it is considered an ornamental species.
Blooming before the leaves emerge in spring, it produces gray catkins with bright yellow tips. The plant is dioecious and male and female flowers grow on separate plants. It is multi-stemmed with colorful branches adding shades of red, brown, purple, and yellow to your gardenscape.
Plant Details of Silky Willow (Salix sericea)
Family: Salicaceae
Hardiness Zones: 4 - 8
Light Requirement: Full sun preferred
Water Needs: High
Height: 6 - 12 ft
Spread: 6 - 10 ft
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Early spring
Flower Color: Yellowish catkins
Wildlife Value: Provides early-season nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators
Lanceolate in shape, the leaves are light green and slivery in color. Each leaf of this beautiful shrub has silky hairs covering its underside, a characteristic from which this shrub gets its common name. These silky hairs cause the foliage to shimmer in the sunlight, particularly when there is a gentle breeze.
Like with other willow trees, the Silky Willow contain salicylic acid. This compound was used to make aspirin when the medicine was first developed. However, synthetic forms of salicylic acid are now used today. Indigenous tribes used this shrub in teas to treat fever and for pain relief.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance for Silky Willow Trees
It can grow in either full sun or shaded locations. It prefers acidic, moist soils and can tolerate drier soils even though it prefers wetter environments. It is a useful plant for erosion control.
This shrub is susceptible to a wide variety of pest and diseases such as aphids, caterpillars and rust. However, the effects of these ailments are usually cosmetic and do not result in the death.
Noteworthy Characteristics of Silky Willow (Salix sericea)
Easy to grow, favors wet soils, attractive foliage Plant this wetland loving shrub in your rain garden or along a pond bank and watch its foliage shimmer in the breeze. Shop for Silky Willow shrubs online at TN Nursery. For 68 years, we have served the landscaping industry and homeowners with specimen plants.
This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery
Bloom Season
Spring
Height at Maturity
Over 10 Feet
Care
Silky Dogwood thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune in winter or early spring to preserve shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Mulch near the ground to retain dampness and suppress weeds.
Plant Reproduction
Silky Willow spreads via root suckers and seed dispersal
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Shrubs
Bare root shrubs are a budget-friendly and efficient way to plant during the cooler months when they’re dormant. Before planting, soak the roots in water for 3–6 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a site with the appropriate light exposure for the species—most flowering shrubs prefer full to partial sun. Dig a hole wide enough to spread out the roots and deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) sits level with the soil surface.
Mound a bit of soil at the bottom of the hole, spread the roots over it, and backfill with native soil while gently firming it to remove air pockets. Water deeply after planting to settle the roots. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during the first growing season to encourage healthy establishment.
Mulch around the base (not touching the stems) to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Prune lightly to remove any broken branches and to shape after the first flush of growth. With minimal care, bare root shrubs will leaf out beautifully and grow into reliable, long-term landscape anchors.
Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.
We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE
Silky Willow
We do not ship this plant to the following states:
NJ. OH. CT. FL.Ships in
November 2025
Why You Will Love Our Silky Willow
Elegant Appearance:
Silky Willow boasts soft, silvery leaves that add a touch of sophistication to any landscape.
Fast Growth:
This willow grows quickly, providing rapid coverage and instant beauty in your garden.
Versatile Planting:
Adaptable to a range of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile choice for different garden settings.
Beautiful Foliage:
The unique texture of the willow’s foliage offers a distinctive and eye-catching look.
