Black Cat Pussy Willow

Black Cat Pussy Willow (Salix chaenomeloides 'Black Cat')

Black Cat Pussy Willow (Salix chaenomeloides 'Black Cat') is a bold deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its oversized, jet-black catkins that appear in late winter. Also known as Black Cat Willow, this unique cultivar offers dramatic early-season interest and thrives in damp or wet soils, making it a striking and functional focal point for gardens in need of late-winter color and strong structure.

Distinctive Features

Black Cat typically grows 8 to 15 feet tall and wide, forming a broad, multi-stemmed shape. In late winter to early spring, before leaves emerge, its stems are lined with large, velvety catkins that open black and silver, creating high contrast against bare branches. As the catkins mature, they soften to a silver-white hue, resembling traditional pussy willows but with a deeper, moodier tone. Green lance-shaped leaves follow in spring and turn yellow in fall.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Moist to wet, well-drained soils; tolerates clay
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: High; thrives in consistently moist conditions
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8

Ideal Uses

• Focal point in winter-interest gardens or seasonal borders
• Accent shrub near water features, rain gardens, or ponds
• Cut branches for late-winter floral arrangements
• Foundation or screening plant with multi-season appeal
• Naturalizing in wet lowland or riparian areas

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune after flowering to maintain size and encourage new stems
• Water regularly, especially in dry weather or sandy soils
• Mulch to keep roots cool and soil moist
• Cut stems in late winter for decorative indoor use
• Renew older plants with hard pruning every few years

Why Choose Black Cat Pussy Willow

• Unusual black catkins provide bold late-winter interest
• Excellent in wet soils where other shrubs struggle
• Fast-growing and easy to maintain
• Valuable for early-season floral arrangements and pollinators
• A dramatic focal point that extends the ornamental season

Black Cat Pussy Willow delivers dark-toned elegance and textural interest when most plants are still dormant�making it a standout focal point for damp areas, seasonal displays, or winter-focused gardens.