🌿

No photo available yet

Submit a photo

Bebb's Willow

Salix bebbiana

Alberta's most common native willow — a spreading tall shrub of woodland edges, streambanks, and clearings. Small grey-green leaves with a pale underside and brown buds. Historically the preferred willow for weaving baskets and the diamond willow walking stick (the 'diamond' pattern comes from a fungus infection). Critical early spring nectar for bees.

Quick Facts

Distribution

Province-wide, Zone 1

Light

Full sun to part shade

Bloom Time

Apr–May (catkins)

Soil

Moist, rich soils; tolerates clay and wet feet

Water

Moderate to high

Pet SafeGenerally considered safe around pets.

Growing & Cultivation

Propagation

Among the easiest natives — fresh hardwood cuttings (30–40 cm) shoved into moist spring soil root almost universally. Softwood cuttings also reliable.