Bleu Willow (Salix purpurea Bleu)

:: Preorder – Shipping in Spring 2026 ::

The Bleu Willow (Salix purpurea Bleu), formerly known as Purple Dicks, is a stunning French selection of Violet Willow prized for its rich red new growth, straight stems, and versatility in basketry, living structures, and ornamental plantings. This fast-growing deciduous willow features vibrant red stems in winter, which mature into a deep ruddy red to purple hue, creating a striking multi-seasonal display.

In late winter to early spring, before leaves emerge, the small, fuzzy catkins appear, resemblingtiny black and red corn cobs, adding unique early-season interest to the landscape. Over time, the foliage develops into a deep blue-green, lending this selection its name, Bleu, meaning “blue” in French.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Salix purpurea Bleu
• Common Name: Bleu Willow (formerly known as Purple Dicks)
• Growing Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Mature Size: 6 to 10 feet tall, with a spread of 4 to 8 feet
• Leaf Characteristics: Young leaves emerge with a red flush, then transition to deep blue-green
• Stem Color:
  • New growth: Rich, rutilant red
  • Maturing wood: Deep ruddy red to purple
• Flowering Season: Late winter to early spring, before leaf emergence
• Catkin Color: Black and red fuzzy catkins, resembling tiny corn cobs
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growing Specifics

• Soil Preferences: Adaptable to varied soil types, including loam, clay, and sandy soils. Prefers moist, well-draining soil but tolerates wet conditions.
• Water Requirements: Thrives in medium to wet soils, making it ideal for ponds, riparian areas, and wetland restoration.
• Pruning and Maintenance:
  • Coppicing (cutting to the ground annually or biannually) encourages the brightest red stems.
  • For basketry and floral use, harvest straight young stems during dormancy.
  • Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new colorful growth.
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing, reaching full size within a few years.
• Spacing:
  • For individual plantings: 3-6 feet apart
  • For hedgerows or living structures: closer spacing recommended

Landscape & Practical Uses

Brilliant Red Winter Stems: Provides striking color in the dormant season

Unique Early Catkins: Tiny black and red catkins offer early-season ornamental interest

Premium for Basketry & Weaving: Produces long, straight stems, perfect for crafting and weaving

Ideal for Living Structures: Excellent for arches, screens, and formal structures due to its upright, flexible growth

Multi-Season Beauty: Spring red flush foliage, summer blue-green leaves, fall transition, and dramatic winter stems

Erosion Control & Wetland Restoration: Thrives in moist soils, helping stabilize riverbanks and slopes

Planting Instructions
Planting willow cuttings is one of the easiest ways to start new plants! Before planting, it’s beneficial to prep the cuttings by soaking them in water for 24 to 48 hours. This helps to encourage root development.

You can also start the cuttings indoors in pots filled with moist soil. This method allows for close monitoring and protection from outdoor elements, providing an ideal start especially in colder climates.

After you soak your cuttings, Choose a sunny to partially shaded location with moist, well-drained soil for planting. Plant the cuttings deep enough, with about two-thirds of their length underground, to ensure stability and adequate root formation. After planting, water the cuttings thoroughly and maintain consistent soil moisture as they establish.

We understand the importance of clear guidance, so with every order of willow cuttings, we provide comprehensive planting instructions. These instructions cover everything from the initial soaking and potting to outdoor planting and care, ensuring your willow cuttings get the best possible start.

Willow Cuttings Growing Guide

Shipping Details

Available as dormant cuttings in bundles. Orders ship seasonally based on optimal planting times.
Shipping Restrictions: We cannot ship rooted plants to California due to compost restrictions.

Non-GMO Commitment: All of our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and naturally propagated, promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices.