Dwarf Arctic Willow (Salix purpurea 'Nana'): Compact Purple-Stemmed Shrub

Dwarf arctic willow, also known as dwarf purple osier, is a compact cultivar of purple willow valued for its slender purple stems and fine blue-green foliage. It is ideal for small gardens and wet sites.

Botanical Profile

Description and Features

This deciduous shrub forms a dense mound 3–5 feet tall and wide. Young stems are slender, purple-red, turning gray with age. Leaves are narrow, blue-green, with a silvery underside. Catkins appear in early spring before leaves.

Cultivation and Uses

Dwarf arctic willow thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist to wet soils. It is excellent for rain gardens, stream banks, and low hedges. Prune hard in late winter to encourage colorful new stems.

Wildlife

Provides early pollen for bees; foliage hosts butterfly larvae.