Weeping French Pussy Willow

Salix caprea 'Pendula'

Nature Hills Nursery

Weeping French Pussy Willow's Cascading Catkins Create Stunning Early Spring Displays Perfect for Cutting Gardens
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-8
Grows 6-8 ft Tall, 8-10 ft Wide
Showy Pink Blooms in Late Winter
Great Choice for Hedge in Butterfly Gardens

$68⁷⁶

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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

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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	Cold hardy, Flowering, Wet Soils, Slopes/Erosion Control
Hardiness Zone	4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	6-8 ft
Width	8-10 ft
Watering Needs	High
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Winter
Flower Color	Pink
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Willow
Botanical Name	Salix caprea 'Pendula'
Species	caprea
Cultivar	Pendula
Class	Fagales
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Charming Accent Weeping French Pussy Willow

Outstanding Early Spring Display
Fountain-Like Form Can Be Shaped Into a Stunning "Umbrella"
Must-Have for Cutting Gardens
Wonderful Specimen or Focal Point
Yellow Fall Color
4 Seasons of Interest
Performs Even in Wet Soil
Children Love this Tree

The sweet, fuzzy catkins and the excellent form of the Weeping French Pussy Willow Tree (Salix caprea 'Pendula') welcomes spring each year with a lot of style. This might be the perfect specimen plant.

It's also a hardy, easy to grow deciduous tree that does not demand a lot of work from you. It is fast-growing and long-lived and tolerates most soil types.

You've seen the famous Pussy Willows in high-end, designer flower arrangements. But this tree is no "one-trick pony." It looks great all year long.

In summer, you'll love the dark green foliage that cloaks the downturned branches lushly. Even in fall, you'll appreciate the golden-yellow tones. For winter interest, study the excellent, strongly weeping form.

French Pussy Willow trees thrive by water and can handle full sun or light shade. The lyrical weeping form will easily elevate the look of any landscape.

Add a Weeping French Pussy Willow Tree and you'll have a never-ending supply of these amazing "fussies" to fill your vases with. Order yours today!

How to Use Weeping French Pussy Willow in the Landscape

This tree makes a terrific focal point in a small Rain Garden. Plant it in a low spot in your yard, and add easy-care Rushes and moist prairie plants, such as Cardinal Flower and Swamp Milkweed.

Try them near a pond, where the reflection will double the viewing pleasure. Or, for a more prosaic application, use them near your downspout from the gutter system.

This is a great specimen tree to use at the corner of your house to anchor your foundation planting. It's especially effective for smaller houses or bungalows.

Create a "Spring Garden" feature by underplanting one with flowering bulbs. What a fantastic way to welcome the new growing season!

Kids of all ages get very excited to see and feel the springtime flowers. Why not give one as a way to celebrate the birth of a child? Or use one near the outdoor play equipment in your yard.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Give your new plant full sun for best results. Durable Pussy Willow trees will thrive in a variety of soil types, including those that stay wet for a period of time.

Provide a moderate amount of water on a regular basis. Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch around the tree, leaving at least 6 inches of clearance around the trunk.

Prune them several times a year to maintain an open and airy look. Remove any shoots growing along the trunk regularly. Trim the bottom of the branches to your desired length, or allow it to grow down to the ground.

Harvest your catkins in early spring by selecting a few of the thickest branches to remove completely back to the main trunk. Prune out branches that cross over one another at this time. Remove wayward shoots from the top of your tree, as well.

Don't miss these special trees. Order your Weeping French Pussy Willow from the expert growers at Nature Hills today!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mature height and width of a Weeping French Pussy Willow?

Weeping French Pussy Willow typically reaches 6-8 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide at maturity. This compact size makes it perfect for smaller landscapes and foundation plantings. Plan for adequate space to showcase its graceful weeping form.

Can the Weeping French Pussy Willow grow in full sun or does it need shade?

The Weeping French Pussy Willow thrives in both full sun and light shade conditions. This adaptable tree performs well in various lighting situations, making it versatile for different landscape positions. Plant it where it gets at least morning sun for best catkin production, available at naturehills.com.

What type of soil does the Weeping French Pussy Willow prefer, and does it tolerate wet soil?

The Weeping French Pussy Willow tolerates most soil types and performs exceptionally well in wet conditions. This makes it ideal for rain gardens, pond areas, or spots with poor drainage where other trees struggle. Plant it in low-lying areas or near downspouts to take advantage of its moisture tolerance.

How do I prune a Weeping French Pussy Willow to maintain its shape?

Prune Weeping French Pussy Willow immediately after the catkins fade in late spring to maintain its fountain-like form. Remove any upward-growing branches and thin crowded areas to preserve the natural weeping habit. You can also shape it into an "umbrella" form by selectively pruning the canopy.

Does a newly planted Weeping French Pussy Willow need staking?

Newly planted Weeping French Pussy Willows typically need staking for their first 1-2 years due to their fountain-like weeping form. The flexible, downturned branches can make young trees unstable in wind. Use a sturdy stake and loose ties to support the trunk while roots establish. Quality specimens are available at naturehills.com.

How often should I water a Weeping French Pussy Willow, especially after planting?

Water newly planted Weeping French Pussy Willow deeply 2-3 times per week for the first month. This tree naturally thrives in wet conditions and tolerates soggy soil well. After establishment, reduce frequency but maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.

What is the typical lifespan of a Weeping French Pussy Willow?

Weeping French Pussy Willows are long-lived trees that can thrive for 30-50 years with proper care. As fast-growing willows, they establish quickly and provide decades of reliable spring catkin displays. Plant in moist, well-draining soil for maximum longevity.

How is the Weeping French Pussy Willow shipped, and does it come in a box or on a truck?

Weeping French Pussy Willows ship as bare root plants during dormant season or in containers during growing season. Smaller trees arrive via standard shipping, while larger specimens may require freight delivery. Check the product page for specific shipping details based on your selected size.

How can I check for pests or diseases on a Weeping French Pussy Willow before purchase?

Look for healthy, unblemished bark and buds without spots, cankers, or insect damage. Check that branches are flexible and show no signs of wilting or discoloration. Inspect the root area for proper moisture and avoid trees with exposed or damaged roots.

Does the Weeping French Pussy Willow require any special long-term maintenance or fertilization?

This hardy tree requires minimal long-term maintenance once established. It's naturally fast-growing and long-lived, tolerating most soil types without demanding much work from you. Simply prune after spring flowering to maintain the desired umbrella shape and remove any dead wood.