A weeping willow in full form is one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the plant world — sweeping branches, soft green foliage, and a presence that instantly softens any landscape. But choosing the right starter tree from the many options available can feel surprisingly complex when you factor in rootstock, pot size, and regional restrictions.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. I spend my time studying nursery stock data, comparing how different growers handle root establishment, and synthesizing owner reports from hundreds of planted landscapes to understand what actually survives and thrives.
Whether you need a fast privacy screen, a pond-side accent, or a living sculpture for a sunny corner, understanding the differences in age, pot size, and variety makes all the difference. Sorting through those details is exactly why this guide to the best green weeping willow tree exists — to help you pick a tree that will root deeply and grow gracefully for years.
How To Choose The Best Green Weeping Willow Tree
Not all weeping willow listings are created equal. Sellers use different pot sizes, age ranges, and even different species (Salix babylonica vs. Salix matsudana). Knowing how to read a listing helps you avoid a weak sapling that struggles to establish.
Starter Size and Pot Gallon Rating
A 1-gallon tree and a 5-gallon tree are not the same plant with a bigger pot — the root mass, trunk caliper, and canopy development are substantially different. Larger gallon ratings generally mean a more established tree that will transplant with less shock and begin growing faster in its first season.
Variety and Growth Habit
Classic weeping willow (Salix babylonica) produces the familiar cascading branches. Corkscrew or curly willow (Salix matsudana) offers twisted stems and golden winter bark. Both are fast growers but serve different landscape purposes. Make sure you are ordering the habit you actually want.
USDA Hardiness and Regional Restrictions
Most weeping willows thrive in zones 4-9, but some sellers cannot ship to Arizona, California, Hawaii, or Alaska due to agricultural regulations. Always confirm your zone and check shipping restrictions before ordering to avoid cancellation.
Root System and Soil Readiness
Willows love moisture but need well-draining soil at the planting site. Trees shipped in fabric grow bags or nursery pots with intact root balls establish faster than bare-root alternatives. Look for listings that mention active root development and protective packaging.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brighter Blooms Weeping Willow 4-5ft | Live Tree | Instant landscape presence | 4-5 ft tall, fast growing, zones 5-9 | Amazon |
| American Plant Exchange 5 Gal | Live Tree | Established root system | 5 gal pot, 2-3 ft tall, disease resistant | Amazon |
| Perfect Plants Weeping Willow 4-5ft | Live Tree | Largest starter size | 5-6 ft tall, 30-40 ft mature height | Amazon |
| Weeping Willow 5 Gal Nursery Pot | Live Tree | Waterside planting | 5 gal, 2 ft tall, thrives in moist soil | Amazon |
| American Plant Exchange 1 Gal | Live Tree | Budget-friendly start | 1 gal pot, 1-2 ft tall, easy care | Amazon |
| Fencer Wire Pre-lit Willow Tree | Artificial | Year-round indoor decor | 6 ft tall, 120 warm white LED lights | Amazon |
| Golden Curls Corkscrew Willow | Live Tree | Unique winter interest | 2.5 QT, 25-30 ft mature, zones 4-8 | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Brighter Blooms Weeping Willow Tree, 4-5 ft
Brighter Blooms delivers a weeping willow that already stands 4-5 feet tall at shipment, giving you a substantial head start over smaller potted options. This tree features the classic cascading branch habit and lush green foliage that defines the species, with a mature height of 30-40 feet and a spread that creates generous shade. The listing includes a manufacturer warranty that covers any issues during delivery, which adds a layer of confidence for first-time willow buyers.
What stands out in the owner feedback is how quickly this size establishes after planting. Several reports mention visible new growth within the first few weeks when placed in full sun with moderate watering. The tree ships as a live plant in a nursery container, so the root ball remains intact during transit. Brighter Blooms also provides clear care instructions focused on watering during the first season to encourage deep root development.
One limitation to note is that Brighter Blooms cannot ship to Arizona, Alaska, or Hawaii due to federal agricultural restrictions. Additionally, some owners note that the branching can appear sparse during the first winter before full leaf-out in spring. This is normal for deciduous trees but worth knowing if you expect instant density. Overall, this is the strongest balance of size, health guarantee, and long-term landscape impact in this lineup.
What works
- 4-5 ft starter size establishes quickly with minimal shock
- Fast-growing nature delivers noticeable shade within a couple of seasons
- Delivery warranty protects against transit damage
What doesn’t
- Cannot ship to AZ, AK, or HI due to regulations
- Winter appearance can look bare before spring leaf-out
2. American Plant Exchange Weeping Willow, 5 Gallon Pot, 2-3 ft
The American Plant Exchange weeping willow in a 5-gallon pot prioritizes root ball integrity above all else. At 2-3 feet tall, this tree is slightly shorter than the Brighter Blooms option, but the larger pot volume supports a more developed root system that can reduce transplant shock significantly. The listing emphasizes disease resistance and extended bloom time, though weeping willows are primarily grown for foliage and form rather than flowers.
Owner reports consistently praise how well this tree handles the transition from nursery to ground. The 13-pound shipping weight reflects the substantial soil and root mass packed in the 5-gallon container. The tree performs best in partial shade to full sun with moderate watering, and it adapts to a range of soil types as long as drainage is adequate. American Plant Exchange markets this as an ornamental landscape accent, and the weeping branch structure delivers that effect even in the early growing stages.
On the downside, the 2-3 foot height means you will wait longer for the tree to reach eye level compared to the 4-5 foot starters. Some buyers also note that the branching can be somewhat upright in the first year before the weeping habit fully develops. If you prioritize root health and disease resistance over instant height, this 5-gallon option provides a very strong foundation.
What works
- 5-gallon container supports a robust, established root system
- Disease-resistant genetics reduce early-season issues
- Heavy root ball minimizes transplant shock
What doesn’t
- 2-3 ft height requires patience for full landscape impact
- Weeping form may not fully develop until the second season
3. Perfect Plants Weeping Willow 4-5ft
Perfect Plants offers one of the tallest starter sizes in this comparison, with trees reaching 5-6 feet at shipment. That extra foot of height translates into a more dramatic landscape presence from day one. The light-green foliage forms tiny wispy clusters that arch up and around the trunk, creating the classic weeping silhouette. This tree is a fast grower, with the trunk capable of adding 8-10 feet of height per year under ideal conditions, eventually reaching 30-40 feet tall with a 35-foot spread.
What makes this listing particularly appealing for serious landscapers is the included easy-to-use plant food and the recommendation to use it as a standalone feature near patios, decks, or poolside areas. The tree ships as a live plant with a substantial root ball, and the 23-pound shipping weight indicates a well-developed specimen. Perfect Plants recommends full sun exposure throughout the day for optimal growth, and the tree adapts well to moist planting sites.
The main trade-off is the shorter warranty period of 15 days, which is less generous than some competitors. A few owners also mention that the tree can arrive with some leaf yellowing due to the stress of shipping, though this typically resolves with proper planting and watering. If you want the tallest possible start and are comfortable with a shorter warranty window, this is the most instant-impact option available.
What works
- 5-6 ft starter height provides immediate landscape presence
- Fast growth rate of 8-10 ft per year under full sun
- Comes with plant food to support early establishment
What doesn’t
- 15-day warranty is shorter than competing options
- Shipping stress can cause temporary leaf yellowing
4. Weeping Willow, 5 Gal Nursery Pot
This weeping willow from Simpson Nursery is specifically marketed for waterside planting, making it the best choice if you have a pond, stream, or consistently damp area on your property. The tree ships in a 5-gallon nursery pot at around 2 feet tall, with a focus on developing a root system that thrives in moist to wet soil. The cascading branch habit is true to form, with elegant pendulous growth that creates the classic weeping profile.
What distinguishes this option is the soil recommendation — it prefers sandy soil and regular watering, which aligns perfectly with the natural habitat of willows near water bodies. The tree is suited for USDA zones 5-9 and performs best in full sun. Owners who planted near water sources report exceptionally vigorous growth, with the tree establishing faster than specimens placed in standard garden soil. The 15-pound shipping weight indicates a solid root mass in the 5-gallon container.
The primary limitation is the restricted shipping area — this tree cannot be shipped to California, Arizona, Alaska, or Hawaii. Additionally, the 2-foot starter height means you will need patience before the tree reaches its full landscape potential. Some owners also note that the tree produces no blossoms, which is botanically accurate for this species but worth mentioning if floral interest is a priority.
What works
- Ideal for moist, waterside planting locations
- Sandy soil tolerance matches natural willow habitats
- 5-gallon pot supports strong root development
What doesn’t
- Cannot ship to CA, AZ, AK, or HI
- 2 ft starter height requires time to reach full size
- No blossoms for those seeking floral interest
5. American Plant Exchange Weeping Willow, 1 Gallon Pot, 1-2 ft
The 1-gallon version from American Plant Exchange offers the most accessible entry point into growing a weeping willow. At 1-2 feet tall, this sapling is small but comes from the same nursery stock as their larger 5-gallon option, so the genetics and disease resistance are consistent. The tree is packaged in a plastic nursery pot with potting soil, making it easy to transplant directly into the ground or a larger container.
Owner feedback highlights how well this size adapts when planted in partial shade with regular watering. The tree is described as easy to care for and suitable for both experienced gardeners and beginners. The weeping branch structure begins to show within the first growing season, though the full cascading form takes longer to develop compared to larger starters. The 4-pound shipping weight reflects the smaller container size, which also means lower shipping stress on the plant.
The trade-off is clear: you are starting smaller, so you will wait longer for the tree to reach shade-producing size. A few owners mention that the tree can be top-heavy in the 1-gallon pot if not supported during the first few months. If you are patient and want the most budget-friendly way to add a weeping willow to your landscape, this is a solid starting point.
What works
- Low-cost entry point for adding a weeping willow
- Same disease-resistant genetics as larger options
- Lightweight packaging reduces shipping stress
What doesn’t
- 1-2 ft height requires patience for landscape impact
- May need staking if top-heavy in the small pot
6. Fencer Wire 6 ft Pre-lit Willow Tree, 120 LED Warm White Lights
This listing from Fencer Wire is an artificial lighted willow tree, not a live plant, and it serves an entirely different purpose. Standing 6 feet tall with 120 warm white LED lights, this pre-lit tree is designed for indoor holiday decor, party ambiance, or year-round home accent lighting. The bendable branches allow you to shape the silhouette to your preference, mimicking the graceful droop of a natural willow.
The tree comes with a brown plastic stand measuring 8.3 by 8.3 inches with four L-clips for stability, plus a 5-meter brown extension cable for flexible placement. Fencer Wire rates the IP44 and UL588 approved lights for indoor use only, and the estimated lamp life is about 4 months if left on 24/7, or over a year if used 8 hours nightly. The artificial construction means zero watering, pruning, or seasonal leaf drop.
On the downside, this is clearly not a substitute for a live landscape tree. The artificial branches will not fool anyone at close range, and the stand requires corner placement or added weight to prevent tipping. If you need a living tree for your garden, skip this option. But if you want the willow aesthetic indoors with convenient lighting, this decorative piece delivers exactly that.
What works
- 120 warm white LEDs create a soft, enchanting glow
- Bendable branches allow customizable shaping
- No maintenance required — no watering or pruning
What doesn’t
- Artificial material is not a substitute for a live tree
- Stand may need weighting or corner placement for stability
- Indoor use only per UL588 rating
7. Golden Curls Corkscrew Weeping Willow, Live Plant 2.5 QT
The Golden Curls Corkscrew Willow from New Life Nursery & Garden offers a completely different aesthetic from the classic weeping willow. Instead of straight cascading branches, this variety produces twisted, curled stems that create striking visual interest — especially in winter when the golden bark is fully exposed. The tree grows to a mature height of 25-30 feet with a spread of 15-20 feet, making it slightly more compact than standard weeping willows.
This tree ships in a fabric grow bag rather than a plastic pot, which is an intentional choice that promotes air pruning of the roots and reduces the risk of circling roots. The corkscrew willow is adaptable to poorly drained soil and tolerates both full sun and partial shade across USDA hardiness zones 4-8. Owners enjoy the shrub-like appearance during early development, with the branch structure forking vertically close to the trunk before filling out.
The main drawback is that this is not the classic weeping form many buyers expect. The twisted branch habit is unique but does not produce the same sweeping, curtain-like effect as Salix babylonica. Additionally, the 2.5-quart size is smaller than most gallon-based options, so the tree will need more time to reach landscape scale. If you appreciate winter garden architecture and want something unusual, this corkscrew willow is a delightful conversation piece.
What works
- Unique twisted branches and golden winter bark
- Fabric grow bag promotes healthy root development
- Adaptable to poorly drained soil and partial shade
What doesn’t
- Not the classic weeping form many buyers expect
- 2.5 QT size is smaller than standard gallon options
- Requires patience to reach mature landscape scale
Hardware & Specs Guide
Mature Size and Growth Rate
Weeping willows are among the fastest-growing shade trees, with many varieties adding 6-10 feet of height per year under optimal conditions. Standard Salix babylonica reaches 30-40 feet tall with a similar spread, while corkscrew varieties top out around 25-30 feet. The starter size you choose directly impacts how many seasons you wait for meaningful shade — 4-5 foot trees establish faster than 1-2 foot saplings.
USDA Hardiness and Climate Fit
Most weeping willow varieties thrive in zones 4-9, tolerating winter cold as low as -30°F in northern zones. The trees prefer long growing seasons with ample moisture. Some sellers restrict shipping to states like Arizona, California, Alaska, and Hawaii due to agricultural regulations, so always verify zone compatibility and shipping policy before ordering.
Sunlight and Soil Preferences
Full sun exposure (at least 6 hours daily) produces the densest canopy and fastest growth. Willows tolerate partial shade but will grow more slowly. The ideal soil is moist, well-draining loam, though many varieties adapt to sandy or clay soils. Consistent moisture during the first two growing seasons is critical for deep root establishment.
Pot Size and Root Readiness
Container size correlates directly with root mass. A 1-gallon pot produces a smaller root ball that establishes more slowly than a 5-gallon pot. Fabric grow bags promote air pruning and prevent circling roots. Trees shipped in nursery pots with intact root balls consistently outperform bare-root options in transplant survival rates.
FAQ
How fast does a green weeping willow tree grow?
What is the best location to plant a weeping willow?
Can I grow a weeping willow in a container or pot?
Why are some weeping willow trees restricted from shipping to certain states?
What is the difference between a weeping willow and a corkscrew willow?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most gardeners, the best green weeping willow tree winner is the Brighter Blooms Weeping Willow 4-5ft because it offers the best balance of starter height, fast growth, and delivery protection. If you want maximum root development and disease resistance, grab the American Plant Exchange 5 Gallon. And for the tallest possible instant landscape presence, nothing beats the Perfect Plants Weeping Willow 4-5ft.