Salix discolor – Pussy Willow – 5-Gallon

This inhabitant of sandy, gravelly river and lake shores is a good choice for soil stabilization. While all willows are important plants for wildlife, this species in particular serves as a host plant for a small butterfly, the Acadian hairstreak (Satyrium acadica). Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) and Viceroy (Limenitis archippus) butterflies also feed on the foliage. Willow flowers (a male flower shown here) provide pollen and nectar for bees early in the spring. Many birds nest in the thickets created by dense willow growth. And ruby-throated hummingbirds use the fuzz on willow seeds for nesting material.