Salix Caprea Kilmarnock 15 Litre Pot 1/2 Standard

Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’ – Weeping Pussy Willow

15 Litre Pot | Half Standard Form
A Compact Weeping Willow with Silky Spring Catkins and Elegant Form

Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’, also known as the Weeping Pussy Willow, is a charming, dwarf weeping tree noted for its silky silver catkins in early spring, neatly cascading branches, and compact habit. Grafted onto a half-standard stem and supplied in a 15 litre pot, it is a perfect specimen for small gardens, patios, and containers.

Key Features

• Spring Catkins: In early spring, the bare branches are adorned with silvery, furry catkins, which are highly attractive to early pollinators.

• Weeping Form: Naturally cascading branches create an elegant umbrella shape, ideal for focal points and smaller spaces.

• Compact & Contained: Maintains a tidy, dome-shaped canopy, ideal for low-maintenance planting schemes.

Seasonal Interest

Late Winter to Early Spring

• Catkins appear on bare wood in February–March, bringing early-season interest and food for bees.

• Male catkins are soft, silver, and tipped with golden pollen as they mature.

Spring to Autumn

• Branches fill with broad, soft green leaves, forming a dense, weeping canopy.

• Ideal shade for underplanting with spring bulbs or groundcovers.

Winter

• Leaf drop reveals the elegant, sculptural form of the weeping branches.

Growth & Dimensions

• Height: Grafted on a half-standard stem (typically around 80–100 cm clear stem).

• Overall Height: Approx. 1.2–1.5 m at maturity.

• Spread: Up to 1.5–2 m, depending on pruning.

• Growth Habit: Slow to moderate growth; maintains a symmetrical, rounded weeping form.

Ideal Uses

• Small Gardens & Patios: Perfect for containers or tight spaces where space-saving form and visual impact are desired.

• Focal Point: Excellent as a standalone feature in beds, borders, or paved areas.

• Wildlife-Friendly Gardens: Early catkins support pollinators emerging from hibernation.

• Children’s Gardens: Soft textures and graceful form make it a gentle, accessible feature.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Moist but well-drained soil; will tolerate clay and loamy types.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK (H6); withstands frost and exposure.

• Maintenance: Minimal. Prune lightly in early summer to maintain shape and remove dead wood. Water regularly during dry spells, especially when container-grown.

Why Choose Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’ (15L, ½ Standard)?

This compact weeping willow is ideal for year-round structure, early spring interest, and low-maintenance planting schemes. Its sculptural form and seasonal catkins make it a delightful addition to patios, courtyards, or cottage-style borders. Easy to grow, visually rewarding, and perfect for pollinators, it is a versatile, garden-friendly feature tree.

Suggested Planting Companions

• Underplanting: Narcissus, Primroses, or Pulmonaria for spring colour.

• Container Companions: Mix with trailing Ivy, Violas, or dwarf Hostas.

• Border Partners: Works well with Lavandula, Heuchera, or Astilbe for soft textures and seasonal layers