DNRC Montana Conservation Seedling Nursery
Bebb Willow
Bebb Willow
Out of stock
Natural Habitat: Common along streams, wetlands, wet meadows, lake margins, floodplains, and moist draws. Also occurs in disturbed sites with high soil moisture and seasonal flooding.
Foliage / Flowers: Deciduous multi-stem shrub or small tree with gray-green oval leaves, softly hairy beneath. Produces early spring catkins (male and female on separate plants), providing one of the earliest pollen and nectar sources for insects.
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Growth Rate: Fast
20-year Height: 12–25 feet tall; spread 10–20 feet
Elevation Range: Up to 8,500 feet
Cold Hardiness: Zone 2–7
Wind Tolerance: High, flexible stems tolerate wind and snow loading well.
Soil Preference: Prefers moist to wet soils; tolerates clay, silt, loam, and periodically flooded soils. Performs best in riparian or high-water-table sites.
Alkali / Saline Soil Tolerance: Low to moderate tolerance.
Life Span: 30–60+ years.
Minimum Annual Precipitation: 16–20 inches or sites with consistent groundwater access.
Drought Tolerance: Low, requires consistent soil moisture.
Windbreak Spacing: Not typically used as a primary windbreak; spacing 6–10 feet if used for screening or riparian stabilization rows.
Potential Pests / Disease: Willow leaf beetles, aphids, sawflies, rusts, cankers; generally resilient if planted in appropriate moisture conditions.
Deer Resistance: Low, highly palatable browse for deer, elk, moose, and livestock.
Wildlife Value:
• Critical early-season pollen and nectar source for native pollinators
• Excellent browse for big game and beaver
• Provides nesting and cover for birds
• Stabilizes streambanks and improves riparian habitat
