Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’

The Kilmarnock willow is a compact weeping form of pussy willow, grafted on a standard stem so the pendulous branches cascade down in a curtain. In late winter and early spring, silky silver catkins open along the bare branches, later turning yellow as they shed pollen, much loved by early bees.

Fresh green leaves follow the catkins through summer. Eventually reaches around 1.5 to 2m tall with a dense weeping head, size depending on graft height.

Plant in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soils including damp spots. Prune in late spring after catkins, to keep the weeping head in shape.

A firm favourite for a small front garden, a lawn feature, a pond side, or a large pot.