Botanical profile

Salix interior

Latin name
Salix interior
Common name
Sand Willow
Type
Native shrub
Family
Salicaceae

Salix interior, commonly known as sandbar willow or interior willow, is a native deciduous shrub with a spreading, suckering habit, particularly suited to moist soils and riparian environments. Vigorous and colonizing, it forms dense stands thanks to its flexible, slender stems adorned with narrow, light green leaves. In spring, before the leaves fully emerge, it produces discreet catkins that contribute to the feeding of early pollinators. Salix interior is recognized for its exceptional ability to stabilize banks, control erosion, and rapidly establish itself in sandy or alluvial soils. It prefers full sun and tolerates waterlogged or periodically flooded soils very well. Ideal for renaturalization projects, it plays an important ecological role in northern landscapes.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Tall, prefers moist to waterlogged soil
Fertilization
Not necessary in a natural environment
Soil type
Damp to soaked, sandy or alluvial
Minimum temperature
-45°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Greenish to yellowish kittens
Fruiting
Capsules releasing cottony seeds
Foliage color
Light green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Spreading and suckering, dense, colonizing habit
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3–6 m (10–20 ft)
Width
3–6 m (10–20 ft)
Growth rate
Fast
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.