I don't know for sure if that particular type of willow would get caterpillars, but if it's a type of Salix, it undoubtedly COULD be used by red-spotted purples, viceroys and mourning cloaks. There are some willows that are much more attractive to butterflies than others. I had some Carolina willows/S. caroliniana, but they weren't nearly as popular as the regular black willows/S. nigra - they only got a few eggs/caterpillars.

Woodlander's carries a bush variety of S. nigra that I ordered earlier this year. I'm growing it in a pot now, and may continue to grow it there, never plant it out. I can't attest to it's continuing small size, since I just got it, though - time will tell.

Unfortunately, Woodlander's ordering season just ended, but in case the variety you mentioned doesn't work out, here's a link.

Sherry

Here is a link that might be useful: Salix nigra 'Webb'

Thanks Sherry. Even if I could order the one you linked, it would still take up too much space in my yard. I already have so much stuff either planted or planned! I am tempted to find one though, and put it in the yard of the house next door...nobody is living there and it will go up for sale soon. I could get it established and venture over there to hunt eggs and cats. Is that a bad thing to do? hehe.

I think it's a wonderful thing to do!
With the real estate market as bad as it is, you might be able to grow a big tree before anybody buys the house!
And, unless the future owner has something against willows, it'll be there to stay.
You could plant it near your property so the branches will drape over into your yard - just be sure nobody sees you planting it! :)

Sherry

Your willow, Salix integra, has the mourning cloak and viceroy butterflies listed in the Hosts database, also the large silkmoths, among other moths.

I think I will do both...get the bush for my yard and cross my fingers, and get a small willow tree for my future neighbors. Maybe I should investigate some additional "Welcome Gifts" for them....lol

~~ How many people do you suppose pay to landscape yards that aren't theirs? ;) ~~