Bleu Willow (Salix purpurea ‘Bleu’)

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—resembling tiny 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

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.