Salix ×holosericea, commonly known as Silky Willow or Silver Willow, is a deciduous hybrid tree. It is native to riparian zones, wetlands, and along streams and rivers in Europe. This fast-growing willow typically reaches a height of 5-20 feet (1.5-6 meters) and is characterized by its slender form and silvery, silky hairs on the young leaves and catkins, which give the plant its common names. The catkins appear in early spring before the leaves, providing early-season interest. Silky Willow has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are green above and silvery beneath due to a dense covering of fine hairs.

Silky Willow is valued for its rapid growth and adaptability to wet conditions, making it useful for erosion control and riparian plantings. It is also used in ornamental gardens for its unique foliage texture and as a wildlife attractant. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and thrives in medium to slow-draining clay, loam, or sandy soils with consistent moisture. It is tolerant of flooding and can be planted in areas that are too wet for many other species. However, it can be susceptible to pests and diseases such as willow beetle and canker, and its aggressive root system may cause problems if planted too close to structures or drainage systems. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread and should manage it accordingly to prevent unwanted naturalization.CC BY-SA 4.0