Salix alba ‘Tristis’ – Weeping Golden Willow is a large, fast-growing ornamental tree prized for its graceful, cascading branches and striking golden-yellow stems. This weeping willow cultivar makes a dramatic statement in the landscape, with its bright foliage and flowing silhouette. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring, followed by long, narrow green leaves that turn golden in fall.

Reaching heights of 50-70 feet with a similar spread, Weeping Golden Willow thrives in full sun and prefers moist to wet soils. It grows best near ponds, streams, or rain gardens, where its roots can access consistent moisture. While highly ornamental, Salix alba ‘Tristis’ is not a native species and can be invasive in some regions. It is often used as a focal point in large landscapes or for erosion control along water edges.

Why Choose Salix alba ‘Tristis’ – Weeping Golden Willow?

• Fast-growing and highly ornamental with graceful, pendulous branches
• Striking golden stems provide year-round interest
• Ideal for large landscapes, pond edges, and riparian plantings
• Tolerates wet soils and helps stabilize streambanks and shorelines

Cultivating Tips:

• Plant in full sun for optimal growth
• Requires moist, well-drained soils; tolerates standing water
• Prune as needed to manage size and maintain structure
• Best suited for large spaces due to its expansive root system

Design Ideas for Your Garden:

• Perfect as a dramatic specimen tree near water features
• Ideal for erosion control along streambanks and lake edges
• Combine with moisture-loving shrubs and perennials for a complete riparian planting

Ecological Benefits:

• Provides shelter for birds and small wildlife
• Helps stabilize soil in wet areas and prevent erosion
• Not a native species but supports some pollinator activity in spring

Since Salix alba ‘Tristis’ – Weeping Golden Willow is not a native species, here are three native alternatives available at Bumbee’s:

• Salix discolor – Pussy Willow: A native shrub or small tree with early-season catkins and wildlife benefits. Thrives in wet areas and supports pollinators.
• Clethra alnifolia – Summersweet: A native shrub with fragrant white flowers that attract pollinators. Tolerates moist soils and works well in rain gardens.
• Itea virginica ‘Henry’s Garnet’ – Henry’s Garnet Sweetspire: A native shrub with cascading white flower spikes and brilliant red fall color. Tolerant of wet soils and ideal for naturalized plantings.