Willows are often large trees, but these are dwarf plants, found on open mountains or in damp places, and well suited for cool places in a rock garden or in other places in the garden that do not dry out. Some spread outwards, rooting as they go, and if they go beyond their planned space, lift the shoots from the end, and cut them back.

Salix lanata is a rounded, compact (but not really dwarf) deciduous shrub, with woolly hairy shoots and silvery grey leaves. In spring it has yellow catkins, but it is grown primarily for its overall appearance, giving structure throughout the summer months.