Pussy Willow
Pussy willow is a much-loved late-winter branch, its bare woody stems studded with soft, silvery-grey catkins that feel like velvet. Florists use it as a sculptural line for spring arrangements, adding gentle texture, movement and a quiet, natural elegance. It is wonderfully forgiving — needing little or no water and lasting for weeks, and it dries in place to hold almost indefinitely. Kept dry, the catkins stay tight and silky; left in water, they open into fluffy yellow blooms.
| Family | Salicaceae |
|---|---|
| Origin | Europe and Western Asia |
| Peak season | February, March |
| Availability | January, February, March, April |
| Stem length | 60–120 cm |
| Vase life | 14–21 days |
| Colors | silver, grey, brown |
| Price tier | budget |
Cut the woody stems on an angle; they need very little water and last for weeks fresh. To keep the soft silver catkins from opening into yellow pollen and fluff, display the branches dry rather than in water. Left in water, the buds will continue to develop and the stems may even root. For a lasting decorative branch, simply stand them dry in a vase.
- •Display dry to keep the silky catkins tight
- •In water the buds open and stems may root
- •Cut woody stems on a sharp angle
- •Extremely long-lasting — weeks to months
- •Store cool and dark to hold the catkins
- •Handle gently to avoid crushing the fur
