Salix eleagnos f. angustifolia

syn. Salix rosmarinifolius

Rosemary Willow has, as the name implies, leaves resembling rosemary (though lacking the wonderful scent). Spring catkins are insignificant, but the foliage and light bronze stems more than make up for it. The narrow leaves take on a beautiful blue-grey tinge in summer before turning a stunning shade of yellow in fall. Stems aren’t particularly vibrant in winter, but they do retain a nice bronze hue.

Easy to grow in average to moist garden conditions in full sun. It can tolerate drier soil than most of the species, but should not be used in the xeric garden.

We love all willows, but this beauty is a particular favorite. We use it as an informal hedge in our herb garden and visitors do indeed mistake it for rosemary. Easy to maintain at a small size.

Zones: 4 to 7
Family: Salicaceae
Type: Deciduous Shrub
Height: 10 to 12 ft.
Spread: 6 to 8 ft.
Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Condition: Medium to Wet
Bloom Time: March to April