Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow

The Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow bush (Salix gracilistyla 'Mt. Aso') is a captivating early spring bloomer that awakens the landscape with its touchably soft, pink catkins! Unlike the traditional silver Pussy Willow, this variety boasts fuzzy buds in a delicate blush hue, making it an eye-catching specimen!

This unique cultivar is a deciduous shrub, offering a striking contrast between its silvery-pink spring catkins and deep brown stems in late winter and early spring. Its charm extends into the summer with lush green foliage before transitioning to golden hues in the fall.

Growing into a rounded, multi-stemmed shrub, Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow reaches approximately 5-6 feet tall and wide at maturity. Its upright habit and arching branches create a graceful form that softens landscapes. Native to Japan and East Asia, this hardy Willow thrives in USDA zones 4-9, tolerating cold winters with ease!

Key Features

• Unique soft pink catkins appear in late winter to early spring
• Deciduous shrub with an upright, rounded arching form
• Grows 5-6 feet tall and wide at maturity
• Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, cold-tolerant and moisture-loving
• Lush green foliage in summer turns golden in fall
• Provides early-season pollen for bees and other pollinators
• Thrives in moist soils and near water features

Landscaping Uses

The eye-catching pink catkins emerge in late winter and early spring, providing an important early nectar source for pollinators. As the season progresses, its vibrant green leaves take center stage, offering a lush backdrop for gardens and water features.

Symbolizing renewal and the changing of seasons, Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow adds both ornamental and ecological value to the landscape!

It's well-adapted to moist soils and is an excellent choice for rain gardens, pond edges, and low-lying areas where other plants may struggle.

• Plant near ponds, streams, or rain gardens for natural beauty
• Use as a focal point for winter interest and early spring blooms
• Add to pollinator gardens for early-season nectar sources
• Pair with other moisture-loving shrubs like Red-Twig Dogwood
• Works well as a fast-growing hedge or privacy screen with seasonal appeal
• Cutting Gardens welcome these great features and you can snip stems for spring bouquets, outdoor container d?cor, and crafts!

Care and Maintenance

This deciduous shrub is easy to grow and adaptable, thriving in moist soils and full sun.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall
• Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade (best bloom in full sun)
• Soil Needs: Moist to high-moisture, well-drained soil; tolerates clay and wet conditions
• Moisture Needs: Prefers consistent moisture, but adapts to average garden soil
• Mulch: Apply a 3-4 inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture
• Fertilization Needs: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Pruning Info: Prune after blooming to shape and control size
• Renewal Pruning: Every 3-5 years, remove older stems to promote fresh growth
• Special Needs/Perks:
• Tolerates wet soils
• Deer-resistant
• Hardy in cold climates
• Tolerates urban conditions

Pink Catkin Perfection ? A Must-Have for Early Color!

If you love early-blooming plants that bring a soft, unique texture to the landscape, the Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow is a must-have! Whether planted near a pond, as a focal point, or as part of a pollinator garden, this hardy, moisture-loving willow delivers year-round beauty and ecological benefits.

Order now from Nature Hills Nursery and have it shipped at the perfect planting time for your region!

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast does Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow grow?
This Willow has a moderate to fast growth rate, typically adding 1-2 feet per year under ideal conditions.

Does Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow need a lot of water?
It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness once established. It thrives in rain gardens, near ponds, or areas with seasonal wetness.

Can I grow this Willow in a container?
While it can be grown in a large container, it will require regular watering and occasional root pruning to keep it healthy.

Is this plant deer-resistant?
Yes! Pussy Willows are generally not preferred by deer, though some browsing may occur in extreme conditions.