- Grows 6 to 15 feet tall
- Full sun to part shade
- Prefers moist to wet soils, but can tolerate various soil types
- Blooms in early spring (March to April)
- Flowers are soft, silvery catkins that turn yellow as they mature
- Attracts early-season pollinators, including bees
- Provides important habitat and food for wildlife
- Leaves are lance-shaped, dark green above and paler beneath
- Can be pruned to maintain desired shape and size
- Tolerant of wet conditions and can be used in rain gardens
- Keystone species
- Larval host plant for a broad range of butterflies and moths
- Supports many specialist bees
- Ecosystem powerhouse
- Fast growing
