About the Pussy
Willow - French :
The French Pussy Willow, Salix discolor,
grows well in almost any soil but it is a
good idea to supplement it with peat moss,
leaf mold or compost. They require full sun
to thrive, but will survive in the shade as
well. As with most willows, they do best
when given lots of water. Although they can
be allowed to grow unpruned, the plant will
benefit from regular pruning after blooming.
Prune the lowest branches back to the
trunk, and prune for shape. You can even cut
the tree back to a six inch stump every 2-3
years (severe pruning results in the longer
stems and larger catkins). Flowers form on
the previous season's growth, not on new
growth so do not prune until the flowers
have faded. For early bloom, cut branches of
pussy willows may be brought in and set in a
water filled vase in a sunny window anytime
after the middle of January. The catkins
will develop and make a nice display for a
considerable time.
