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photo of Howard Lubbers

Meet the Breeder

Howard Lubbers
Holland, MI, USA

BLACK CAT®

Pussywillow

Salix x leucopithecia

'Lubber's Zwart'

USPP 27,403; CBR 6141

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Close up of Black Cat Salix black blooms Close up of purple and red Black Cat Salix blooms
  • Early to bloom
  • Good for cutting
  • Unique coloration
Description

Extra-large black catkins appear in late winter, giving this plant unique appeal for cut flower sales as well as in the landscape. Larger catkins than Salix gracilistyla 'Melanostachys'. Formerly known as S. chaenomeloides, which was recently proven to be a naturally-occurring hybrid between Salix gracilistyla and S. caprea.

USDA Zone
4 - 7 (-30°F/-34°C)
Exposure
Full sun
Height
10 - 12'
Width
10 - 12'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Deciduous
Bloom Time
Early spring
Flower Color
Black
Foliage Color
Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4", 4", Quick Turn

Soil

Thrives in moist, slightly acidic soils, but is, overall, adaptable.

Pruning

For optimal flower production, cut hard after bloom.

Uses

Mixed borders; cutting; wildlife gardens; rain gardens.

Growing Tips

The fuzzy catkins are the only real reason to grow this plant, and it is best to prune regularly to encourage juvenile growth, which is the most prolific blooming.

  • Benchcard: Black Cat® Salix Benchcard
  • Spec Sheet: Black Cat® Salix Spec Sheet
  • Grower Sheet: Black Cat® Salix Grower Sheet
  • Tag: Black Cat® Salix Tag

    • Features: Cut flower, Deer resistant, Clay soil

    Filters: Botanical genus: Salix, Common name: Pussywillow, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, Exposure: Full sun, Bloom time: Spring, Black flowers, Green foliage

    Features: Cut flower, Deer resistant, Clay soil

    Filters: Botanical genus: Salix, Common name: Pussywillow, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, Exposure: Full sun, Bloom time: Spring, Black flowers, Green foliage