Golden Weeping Willow

Salix alba 'Tristis'

Nature Hills Nursery

Hardy in zones 4-8 with fast growth reaching 50-75 feet tall and wide, perfect for creating shade quickly
Stunning golden-yellow drooping branches create dramatic winter interest and graceful form year-round
Bright green leaves turn golden yellow in fall, thrives in wet areas and tolerates clay soil
Ideal specimen tree near ponds, streams or large open spaces where its classic weeping silhouette can shine

$40⁷⁹

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Plant Size

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Give this tree at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and golden branch color. It tolerates partial shade but grows more vigorously in full sun.

Soil: Golden Weeping Willow adapts to most soil types including heavy clay, wet areas, and poorly drained sites where other trees struggle. It actually prefers consistently moist to wet soil and thrives near water features. For average garden soil, plant in a low spot where water naturally collects or near downspouts. Avoid extremely dry, sandy locations.

Watering Requirements

Water deeply twice a week during the first growing season to establish the extensive root system. Once established, this willow thrives with consistent moisture and naturally wet conditions. If planted away from water features or in average soil, water weekly during dry periods to maintain vigorous growth. This tree is happiest with abundant water and rarely suffers from overwatering.

Pruning Tips

Prune in late winter before spring growth begins to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Thin the interior canopy to improve air circulation, which reduces disease pressure and prevents wind damage to the brittle branches. Trim back branches that drag on the ground to maintain the weeping form while keeping foliage off the soil where disease can spread. Remove any upright shoots growing from the trunk to preserve the graceful weeping shape. Be aware that this tree naturally drops small twigs and branchlets, especially after storms.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if your tree shows signs of slow growth or pale foliage. Willows growing in consistently wet or rich soil typically need no fertilization at all. If you do fertilize, use a product formulated for shade trees and follow package directions carefully. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that encourage weak, brittle growth prone to storm damage.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Fast-growing, Wet Soils, Hedge/Screen, Slopes/Erosion Control, Fall Color/Interest, Attracts pollinators
Hardiness Zone	4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	50-75 ft
Width	50-75 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Fast
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Yellow
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Willow
Botanical Name	Salix alba 'Tristis'
Species	alba
Cultivar	Tristis
Class	Fagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

There's no tree quite like the Golden Weeping Willow (Salix alba 'Tristis'). Those iconic cascading branches sweep toward the ground like a living curtain, creating a sense of motion even on a still day. The golden-yellow bark and branches are especially striking in winter, when most of the landscape is bare. If you've got the room and a damp spot in your yard, this may be the most rewarding tree you'll ever plant.

Why You'll Love the Golden Weeping Willow

Iconic weeping form with long, cascading golden branches
Thrives in wet soil where most other trees struggle or fail
Golden-yellow bark and branches provide outstanding winter interest
One of the fastest growing shade trees, adding several feet per year
Early spring catkins provide nectar for pollinators when few other sources are available
Deer resistant, so you can enjoy it without constant worry

Growing Conditions

The Golden Weeping Willow is hardy in zones 4 through 9 and thrives in full sun (six or more hours daily), though it tolerates partial shade. This is the tree you want for wet areas, low spots, pond edges, and poorly drained sites that stump other species. It adapts to most soil types, including heavy clay. It actually prefers consistent moisture and is one of the few large trees that genuinely performs best in soggy ground.

Size and Growth Habit

This is a big tree. Expect a mature height of 50 to 75 feet with an equal spread of 50 to 75 feet. Growth rate is fast, often adding several feet per year in good conditions. The broad, rounded canopy is defined by pendulous branches that sweep outward and downward, sometimes reaching all the way to the ground. The overall effect is graceful and dramatic at any size.

Landscape Uses and Design Ideas

Golden Weeping Willows look their best near water. Plant one beside a pond, stream, lake edge, or rain garden where it can take advantage of the moisture and provide a natural, park-like setting. It also works well as a standalone specimen in a large open yard where those sweeping branches have room to move. The year-round interest (spring catkins, summer shade, golden fall and winter color) makes it a true four-season tree. Browse our willow trees collection for more varieties, and explore other fast-growing trees and shade trees to round out your landscape.

Planting and Care Tips

Site selection is critical. Plant your Golden Weeping Willow at least 50 feet from buildings, septic systems, sewer lines, and underground utilities. The root system is aggressive and wide-spreading, and it will find water pipes if given the chance. This tree needs a large, open area to reach its potential.

Be prepared for some ongoing maintenance. Weeping willows are fast growers, which means they produce softer wood that can be prone to branch breakage in storms. Regular cleanup of small twigs and leaf litter is part of the deal. Prune out any damaged or crossing branches in late winter while the tree is dormant.

For more growing tips, read our guides on everything about willow trees, using fast-growing willows in your landscape, and weeping trees and how to care for them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How large does a Golden Weeping Willow get at maturity?

Golden Weeping Willows typically reach 25-40 feet tall and 35-50 feet wide at maturity. These fast-growing trees can achieve substantial size within 10-15 years. Plan for plenty of space as the cascading branches can reach the ground on mature specimens.

What are the soil and water requirements for planting a Golden Weeping Willow?

Golden Weeping Willows thrive in moist, well-draining soil and tolerate wet conditions better than most trees. They prefer consistent moisture and perform exceptionally well near water features or in low-lying areas. Plant in full sun to partial shade for best growth and golden branch color development.

Can I plant a Golden Weeping Willow near a pond, lake, or wet area?

Golden Weeping Willows thrive in wet areas and are perfect for waterside planting near ponds, lakes, or streams. Their natural preference for moist soil makes them ideal for soggy spots where other trees struggle. Plant at least 15-20 feet from water's edge to allow room for the cascading branches to develop fully.

What kind of maintenance and pruning does a Golden Weeping Willow require?

Golden Weeping Willows need minimal pruning due to their naturally graceful form. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter before spring growth begins. Prune wayward shoots that disrupt the weeping silhouette anytime during the growing season.

Is the Golden Weeping Willow tolerant of clay soil, flooding, or road salt?

Golden Weeping Willow thrives in clay soil and handles periodic flooding exceptionally well, but has limited road salt tolerance. Its natural affinity for wet conditions makes it perfect for low-lying areas where other trees struggle. Shop at Nature Hills for this resilient waterside performer.

Which zone shipping schedule do you follow for Golden Weeping Willow?

Golden Weeping Willow ships according to your specific hardiness zone's optimal planting window to ensure successful establishment. We follow USDA zone-based schedules that account for your local frost dates and soil conditions. Check your zone's shipping calendar for exact timing.

Golden Weeping Willow

Salix alba 'Tristis'