Photo: Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer) · CC BY 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
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
Bouquet Builder — by Lacy BirdDesign the bouquet. See it as a photo.
Frequently asked questions
When is Pussy Willow in season?
Pussy Willow peaks in February, March, and florists can usually source it January, February, March, April. Availability shifts by region and greenhouse supply.
How long does Pussy Willow last in a vase?
Expect 14–21 days with proper conditioning — a clean vase, fresh water every couple of days, flower food, and a cool spot away from ripening fruit and direct heat.
What can I use instead of Pussy Willow?
Good substitutes for Pussy Willow include Cotton, Lagurus (bunny tail grass), Pampas grass. Match on look, colour and season — our substitute finder ranks the closest alternatives.
What does Pussy Willow symbolise?
Pussy Willow is associated with new life, spring, renewal, resilience.
How do you care for cut Pussy Willow?
Display dry to keep the silky catkins tight
