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Native Pussy Willow Plant Search #872163
Asked June 08, 2024, 10:06 AM EDT
Hi
I was given this email by Jonkers Garden in Holland, MI. I have been to A LOT of nurseries in SW Michigan looking for the native, straight pussy willow plant. I can't find it anywhere! Do you have suggestions? I have six acres on Lemon Creek in St Joe MI and I'd love a pussy willow plant by the creek. I'd like to use cuttings for my cut flower arrangements. I appreciate any direction you are able to provide. Thank you
Angela Easter<personal data hidden>
Berrien County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Angela,
Interesting question! You're talking about the American Pussy Willow (Salix discolor), correct?
- Jeremy
Hi Angela,
I suspect that you will need to visit native plant specialty nurseries (assuming you haven't already done so).
There are a couple I know that have carried native pussy willow in the past.
Hidden Savanna Nursery - Kalamazoo, MI
https://www.hiddensavanna.com/
Wildtype Nursery - Mason, MI
https://www.wildtypeplants.com/
Both would be a bit of a drive for you. Neither have retail sale dates in the summer, but you may be able to arrange a visit if you contact them.
There's a great online native plant retailer in Minnesota called Prairie Moon. I know it's not Michigan, but MN, WI, & MI share many of the same native species. I would personally feel comfortable planting something from them in my yard.
A few other resources that might help.
Native Plant Guild of Michigan
Many Conservation Districts have spring tree sales. It's possible some may offer pussy willows.
https://www.kalamazooconservation.org/
Hope that helps!
Kindly,
Jeremy
