SCIENTIFIC NAME: Salix caprea 'Kilmarnock'

COMMON NAME: Kilmarnock Willow

GARDEN SIZE: 8 feet tall x 6 feet wide; larger with age

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 4-8

EXPOSURE: Full sun to part shade

WATER & SOIL: Moist to wet soils; humus-rich, evenly moist soil preferred

HABIT (FORM): Weeping, umbrella-shaped tree

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; green foliage with some fall color

FLOWERS: Yellow pussy willow buds that fade to gray; early spring blooms, showy flowers, good for cutting

PLANT ORIGIN: Europe and Asia

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: May apply organic compost in the spring.

PRUNING: Prune to remove heavy branches to prevent breakage, but otherwise no pruning is necessary. If shaping is desired, willows may be trimmed during dormancy.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Can be mildly toxic to pets (salicylic acid)

USES: Specimen tree, erosion control on slopes, rain garden, riparian areas