Discovering Pussy Willows

Don’t you just love them? Soft, tiny bundles of fluff perched delicately on the edge of a branch, pussy willows are a delightful addition to spring. But just what are they? Here at Willows on Willows, we thought it only fitting to share a bit about this soft and tiny spring delight.

Pussy willows come from the willow tree, specifically the species Salix caprea (or discolor). Before leaves bloom on the trees, small, silky catkins appear as tiny buds on the branches. They are silvery or yellow in color and most typically about the size of a quarter.

HOW TO DISPLAY THEM

Pussy willows are a great way to welcome spring indoors. Bundles can be small or large, short or long and used in displays throughout your home. A grouping of longer stems can brighten up a dining room or entry hall when placed in a taller vessel such as a floor vase or tall planter. Tiny bunches can be placed in mason jars in the kitchen or your sunroom.

Pussy willows can also be used outside a front door by sticking them into the middle of a planter display of greenery, whether cedar boughs, pine branches, or ivy. Florist foam can help keep the cuttings upright. Pottery also makes a good container for display. Pussy willows’ supple branches can also be bent and used as a wreath for your front door. You can definitely get creative with them! How about this cute bowl to display your Easter eggs in?

HOW LONG THEY LAST

Once cut, pussy willow stems will last indefinitely when treated with care. Keep them out of water to preserve the furry catkin. If you want the buds to continue to open, place them into water. Once they reach their desired sized, remove them from water and they stop growing. If left in water they will grow roots. The branches can then be popped into soil where they will grow rather easily.

We love this pretty pussy willow wreath, learn how to make your own from HGTV