Pussy willow

Salix discolor Muhl.

Family: SalicaceaeZones: 2 to 7 per NC State

Pet & Human Safety

People: Not researchedPets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

Not yet checked.

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

Not yet checked.

Hazard route

Not yet checked.

How complete this information is

We have not researched the safety of this plant yet.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

No pet toxicity verdict is available for this plant: ASPCA has no page that assesses it (searched by species and common names). That is a gap, not an all-clear.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 2 to 7 per NC State
Light: Full sun to part shade
Water needs: high
Mature size: 10 to 20 ft tall (3 to 6 m) and 8 to 12 ft wide (2.4 to 3.7 m) per NC State
Where it comes from: North America (NC State).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon