Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow

Name: Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 22404
Price: 38.46 USD
Availability: InStock

Salix gracilistyla ‘Mt. Aso’

Nature Hills Nursery

$38⁴⁶

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In Stock

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Plant Size

#1 Container #3 Container 1-2 Feet

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Plant this willow in a location that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct daylight. While it can tolerate very light shade, full sun produces the most vibrant pink catkins and maintains a dense, attractive form.
Soil: This shrub loves moisture and thrives in damp soil, making it a perfect candidate for rain gardens or low spots in the yard. It adapts well to various soil textures, including clay, as long as the soil remains consistently moist and does not dry out completely.

Watering Requirements

Water deeply and frequently during the first year to help the energetic root system establish itself. Because this plant naturally grows near water sources, it has low drought tolerance; inconsistent watering will lead to leaf drop and stress, so keep the soil moist even after the plant is established.

Pruning Tips

The famous pink catkins form on the previous year's growth, also known as old wood, so wait to prune until immediately after the display finishes in spring. You can cut the stems back hard (coppicing) to encourage long, straight whips of new growth that will be loaded with catkins the following year.

Fertilizer Needs

Feed your willow with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new green leaves begin to emerge. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages tender growth that will be damaged by the first freeze.

Delivery and Shipping

Preorder Shipping Schedule

We ship your plants when it's safe to transport them to your zone. Dates are estimated and subject to weather delays.

Zone 3-4	Week of March 30th
Zone 5	Week of March 16th
Zone 6-12	Week of March 2nd

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.

Mt. Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow Bush

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!

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Growing Zones 4-9

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow suitable for?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow is hardy in USDA zones 4-9. This cold-tolerant shrub handles harsh winters well while thriving in warmer climates too. Plant it in moist, well-draining soil for best results.

How tall and wide does Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow grow at maturity?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow reaches 5-6 feet tall and wide at maturity, forming a rounded, multi-stemmed shrub with graceful arching branches. This compact size makes it perfect for smaller gardens or as a focal point near water features in zones 4-9.

Does Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow prefer full sun or partial shade?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This hardy shrub adapts well to various light levels while maintaining its signature pink catkins in late winter. For best flowering and form, provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.

What type of soil does Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow need, and is it tolerant of clay or wet soils?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow thrives in moist soils and tolerates wet conditions exceptionally well. This hardy shrub is perfectly suited for clay soils and waterlogged areas where other plants struggle. Plant it in rain gardens, near ponds, or in low-lying wet spots for best results.

How often should I water Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow, especially in dry areas?

Water Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow deeply 2-3 times weekly in dry areas, as this moisture-loving shrub naturally thrives near water features. In zones 4-9, maintain consistent soil moisture especially during its late winter catkin emergence. Shop at Nature Hills for this hardy willow that performs best with regular watering.

When do the pink catkins bloom on Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow?

The pink catkins bloom in late winter to early spring, providing one of the season's earliest shows of color. These soft, blush-hued catkins emerge before the leaves and offer crucial early nectar for pollinators. Plant in a visible spot where you can enjoy this delightful late winter display.

How do I prune Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow to maintain its shape and catkin production?

Prune immediately after catkins fade in late spring to ensure next year's blooms form on new growth. Remove about one-third of the oldest stems annually to maintain the 5-6 foot rounded shape and encourage fresh catkin production.

Is Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow resistant to pests and diseases?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow is generally resistant to most pests and diseases when grown in its preferred moist conditions. Like most willows, it may occasionally attract aphids or scale insects, but these rarely cause serious damage. Plant in zones 4-9 with adequate moisture for best disease resistance.

What is the current size of the Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow plant I'm buying?

The Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow is sold as a young nursery plant that will mature to 5-6 feet tall and wide. This hardy shrub grows at a moderate pace in zones 4-9. Plant it with room to spread, as it develops into a graceful, multi-stemmed specimen over several seasons.

When will my Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow ship, and is it bare root or potted?

Mount Aso Pink Japanese Pussy Willow ships as a potted plant during optimal planting seasons for your zone. This hardy shrub (zones 4-9) typically ships in spring or fall when temperatures support successful establishment. Plant immediately upon arrival for best results.