Meadow Willow

About Meadow Willow

Meadow Willow is a slender and elegant shrub that brings a refined, airy quality to moist landscapes. This multi-stemmed willow typically reaches 10 to 15 feet in height and is noted for its thin, flexible branches and narrow, finely-toothed leaves. In early spring (April to May), it produces small, dainty catkins that are a welcome sight for early-emerging pollinators. Native to the northern United States and Canada, Meadow Willow is commonly found in fens, sedge meadows, and along the margins of lakes and streams. It plays a vital role in its ecosystem by stabilizing soils and providing high-quality forage and habitat for a diverse range of wildlife. This species flourishes in full to partial sun and wet to medium-wet soils. Its graceful form and resilience make it an excellent choice for naturalizing wet areas or for use in large-scale wetland restoration projects where both beauty and function are desired.