Pussy willow is a short-lived, fast growing, native tree, or large shrubby shrub with a rounded crown. In early spring the silky furry catkins open before the leaves appear to signal spring is on the way. Grows in average, medium to wet, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Prefers full sun. Thrives in moist soils but tolerates somewhat drier soils better than most other willows. Intolerant of dry soils. Prune as needed in late winter to early spring. Plants may be cut to the ground every 3-5 years to maintain a smaller shrub shape. This is a dioecious species (male and female catkins appearing on separate trees) that is most often seen as a large multi-stemmed shrub to 6-15’ tall but is less frequently found as a small tree to 30’ tall.