PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates exposed, windy coastal conditions
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist; tolerant of waterlogged and boggy growing conditions
Temperature
Hardy to severe cold; withstands temperatures as low as -20°C; avoid prolonged extreme heat above 28°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Oval to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, downy undersides, and ear-like stipules at the base
- Flower: Dioecious catkins; male catkins yellow, female catkins greenish, emerging before foliage
- Stem/Bark: Slender, flexible stems with smooth grey-brown bark that becomes fissured with age
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent soil moisture; increase watering during prolonged dry spells
Fertilization
Apply balanced diluted feed once in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of catkin production
Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench; discard solids to avoid odor and pest attractionPruning
- Prune dead or damaged branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and light penetration
- Trim to maintain desired shape after flowering to avoid removing next year’s catkin buds
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Mildly toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
Humans: Contains salicin (similar to aspirin); large ingestion may cause stomach upset, nausea, or dizziness
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes resilience and new beginnings in traditional European folklore
Usage: Ornamental for early spring catkins; erosion control in wetland and riparian areas
