Salix irrorata 'Violet Beauty'

Bluestem Willow is a must have in the winter garden. The bare stems are a deep purple, but are coated in a white powder that lends it a ghostly blue cast. Silvery spring catkins aren’t as showy as those of pussy willows, but they are still a boon to early pollinators. The glaucous foliage with silvery undersides remains extremely attractive all summer.  

‘Violet Beauty’ is truly a beauty with long, deep purple stems and extra large grey-white catkins. It is the middle cutting in the photo.

Easy to grow in average to moist soils in full sun to part shade. Makes an excellent hedge. 

Zones: 4 to 8

Family: Salicaceae

Type: Deciduous Shrub

Height: 6-12 feet

Spread: 6-12 feet

Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade

Soil Condition: Medium to Wet

Bloom Time: March to April