Salix atrocinerea × aurita, commonly known as Grey Willow or Eared Willow, is a deciduous hybrid shrub or small tree. It is native to wetlands, riparian zones, and moist open woodlands across Europe. This hybrid typically grows rapidly to a height of 3-20 feet (0.9-6 meters) and a width of 4-12 feet (1.2-3.7 meters). Its appearance is characterized by its grey-green foliage and yellow or green catkins that bloom in early spring, providing an early source of pollen for bees. The catkins are followed by cottony seeds that can be quite noticeable. Grey Willow is valued for its ability to thrive in challenging wet conditions and is often used for soil stabilization and habitat creation.

Grey Willow is adaptable to a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, and prefers medium to slow draining conditions. It requires high amounts of water, making it suitable for planting in areas with consistent moisture, such as near bodies of water. It can tolerate both full sun and part shade. While it is not known for showy flowers, its resilience and rapid growth make it useful for creating natural screens or windbreaks. Gardeners should be cautious, as it can be potentially invasive outside its native range due to its vigorous growth and seed dispersal by wind.CC BY-SA 4.0