SALIX LUCIDA / SHINING WILLOW

SALIX LUCIDA / SHINING WILLOW

A Native Shrub Willow with Glossy Foliage and Wetland Adaptability

Salix lucida, commonly known as Shining Willow, is a native deciduous shrub valued for its glossy green leaves, slender flexible stems, and rapid growth. Thriving in full sun to partial shade with moist to wet soils, Shining Willow is ideal for riparian plantings, naturalized landscapes, and wildlife gardens. Its adaptability, fast growth, and ecological benefits make it a standout native shrub for wet sites.

Why Choose Shining Willow?

Rapid Growth: Quickly establishes dense thickets, ideal for erosion control and habitat.
Wildlife Friendly: Catkins provide early nectar for pollinators; stems and foliage offer cover for birds and small mammals.
Wet-Site Tolerant: Thrives along streams, ponds, and other moist lowlands.
Low Maintenance & Hardy: Resilient and adaptable in a variety of soil conditions.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Glossy medium green leaves; yellow in fall.
Flower Color: Yellow catkins appearing in early spring.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 15–25 feet tall and wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 3–7.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Soil Requirements: Moist to wet soils; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 15–25 feet tall, 15–25 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–7.
Flowering: Early spring catkins.
Fall Interest: Leaves turn yellow in autumn.

Ideal Uses:

Riparian & Wetland Plantings: Excellent for stabilizing streambanks, pond edges, and wet soils.
Naturalized Landscapes: Forms dense thickets for informal plantings and habitat.
Wildlife Gardens: Provides nectar, food, and cover for birds and pollinators.
Erosion Control: Fast-growing roots stabilize soil in moist areas.

Shining Willow is a fast-growing, ecologically valuable native shrub. Its glossy foliage, wetland adaptability, and wildlife benefits make it an excellent choice for riparian restoration, naturalized landscapes, and wildlife-friendly gardens.