The Wolf Willow is an extremely hardy shrub that is native to northern Canada. It has very attractive silver foliage that makes it an excellent contrast hedge on the south and west side of of dark green spruce, pine or fir shelterbelt. The fragrant yellow flowers emerge in late May/early June and produce white dime-size fruit that is not edible for humans but is eaten by the birds.
These shrubs have a extensive root system that makes them extremely valuable in stream side plantings for erosion control. They grow on virtually any soil, including sand and gravel.
Fascinating foliage facts:
Even though the name suggests that this shrub is related to the willow family, it is actually a close relative of the Russian Olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia)
Also known as Silverberry. Makes an excellent plant for hard to grow areas. Tiny yellow, sweetly scented, flowers in spring are followed by small egg shaped, silvery fruit in summer. Useful for bank stabilization.