Salix niphoclada, commonly known as Barren-ground Willow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Russian Far East, Subarctic America to W. Canada. It typically grows to a height of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) with a similar spread, and it features a rounded form with slender, glossy twigs. The Shiny Willow is particularly noted for its catkins, which appear in early spring before the leaves, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. The catkins are yellow and are attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Shiny Willow is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it suitable for planting in riparian restoration projects, wetland gardens, and as a natural stabilizer along stream banks. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are consistently moist. In cultivation, it is also used for its fast growth rate and ease of propagation from cuttings. However, gardeners should be aware that it can spread aggressively via root suckers, potentially becoming a management issue. Due to its invasive potential, it is important to consult local regulations before planting it outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0