Willow trees are known for their graceful beauty , fast growth , and adaptability to various surround . With their arc branches , elegant foliage , and seasonal appealingness , these trees have become a favourite in landscape painting , wetlands , and garden around the world . But did you know there are many differenttypes of willow tree trees , each with its own singular characteristics and growing habits ?
From towering weeping willow to compact alpine varieties , the diversity within the willow genus ( Salix ) is truly remarkable . Some mintage prosper along riverbanks , while others develop in stale alpine zones or serve practical determination like basket weaving and erosion control . determine to identify the varioustypes of willow treescan enhance your admiration for their use in both cosmetic and ecologic landscapes .
In this guidebook , we ’ll explore 37 fascinatingtypes of willow tree trees , complete with pictures and identifying feature article . Whether you ’re a gardener , nature lover , or simply curious about these versatile tree , this comprehensive listing will serve you discover the wide range of willows that be across the world .
Types of Weeping Willow Trees
Babylon Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica)
The Babylon Weeping Willow is one of the most iconic willow trees , known for its recollective , refined offset that traverse toward the ground . Its narrow , lance - shaped leaf are burnished green duringspringandsummer , work golden yellow in fall . This coinage is fast growing and highly ornamental , often launch near water features or big open lawns .
It thrives in USDA hardiness zona 5 through 9 and prefers full sunlight to partial wraith . It grows undecomposed in moist , well - drain grease but can brook curt periods of drought once prove . Although originally native to China , the Babylon Willow has become widely cultivated in temperate regions around the world .
Regular watering is essential , especially in hot or teetotal mood , to wield its lush appearance . Pruning in late wintertime or early spring helps maintain its shape and remove dead woodwind . It is best to plant this tree away from structures and pipage due to its belligerent stem system .
Golden Weeping Willow (Salix × sepulcralis ‘Chrysocoma’)
The Golden Weeping Willow is admired for its smart as a whip gold yellow twigs and cascading green foliage , piss it a standout feature in any landscape . It is a hybrid miscellanea make grow fromSalix albaandSalix babylonica , combining hardiness with elegance . In early fountain , it also produce small , invisible ament .
This willow tree thrive in USDA zones 4 through 9 and enjoys sunny areas with moist , plenteous soils . It is a truehearted growing tree that can reach 30 to 50 ft in summit with a standardised spread , making it suited for large properties . Its prosperous twigs add winter interest even when the folio are go .
Golden Weeping Willow benefit from regular tearing , especially in dry periods . It is relatively low maintenance but should be pruned annually to take away dead or washy branches . annul planting near septic systems or foundations due to its invasive roots .
Corkscrew Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’)
The Corkscrew Willow , also eff as Dragon ’s Claw Willow , is notable for its uniquely twisted branches and contorted leave-taking that give it an heart catching , sculptured appearance . It is often used in flowered arrangements and wintertime gardens because of its dramatic shape . Its foliation is bright light-green in summer and turns yellow in the fall .
This willow tree is dauntless in USDA zona 4 through 8 and grows cursorily , typically reaching 20 to 30 feet tall . It adapts well to a variety show of soil eccentric but prefers moist , well - drained conditions and full sun . Originating from northern China , it is a cultivar of the Chinese Willow ( Salix matsudana ) .
wish for a Corkscrew Willow involves lachrymation regularly during dry spells and prune to control its shape . Its rapid ontogeny makes it prostrate to watery branches , so take away damaged limbs helps prevent breakage . It is a peachy choice for ornamental use but should not be plant near underground utilities .
Common Weeping Willow Hybrid (Salix × pendulina)
The Common Weeping Willow Hybrid is a wide plant decorative Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree known for its cascading branches and exuberant dark-green leaf . This hybrid combines the beauty of traditional crying willows with cracking cold tolerance and adaptability . It tot elegance to parks , water edges , and heavy garden .
It perform good in USDA hardiness zone 4 through 9 and prefers moist , loamy grime . The tree grows quickly , reaching 40 to 60 foot in height , and demand rich space to develop its expansive canopy . While tolerant of wet atmospheric condition , it may also survive in moderately dry soils once established .
To maintain its health , water on a regular basis during dry period of time and trim stagnant or pass over branches in early spring . Like other willows , this cross has aggressive roots and should be kept away from foundations , infected lines , and sidewalks . It is ideal for adding tincture and dramatic play to landscape designs .
Navajo Weeping Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Navajo’)
The Navajo Weeping Willow is a polished selection of the Chinese Willow , appreciated for its narrower , more unsloped form and refined droop arm . Its leafage are lance - shaped , intermediate leafy vegetable , and turn yellow before shedding in autumn . This cultivar is a outstanding choice for ornamental planting where space is more special .
It grow well in USDA zones 4 through 9 and prefers full sun and moist , well - drained ground . The Navajo variety reach about 30 to 40 feet marvellous , slightly small than other crying willows , making it easier to manage in smaller landscapes . Its growth charge per unit is debauched and it tolerates urban pollution and bundle soil better than many willow tree .
Navajo Weeping Willow requires moderate watering and benefits from mulch to keep up moisture . Pruning once a year keeps its chassis elegant and promote tidy fork . Its less invading root system makes it more adaptable for residential gardens , though care should still be taken with placement .
Types of Shrub Willows
Purple Osier Willow (Salix purpurea)
The Purple Osier Willow is a salient deciduous shrub or diminished tree recognize for its slender purplish stems and narrow blue green leaves . It is often used for ornamental hedging , basket weaving , and erosion control due to its impenetrable growth and ductile branches . In early spring , it produces slender catkins that add seasonal interest before the foliage appears .
This willow thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8 and grows well in full Sunday to fond shade . It prefer damp , well - enfeeble stain but is also tolerant of heavy clay and stiff conditions . aboriginal to Europe and western Asia , it has naturalized in many parts of North America and is popular in landscape blueprint that favour construction and color contrast .
Purple Osier Willow benefits from unconstipated pruning to maintain shape and encourage new growth . It is relatively low-toned maintenance and grows quickly , typically make 10 to 20 foot tall . Its roots are non - incursive , make it suitable for residential garden and riparian restoration .
Dappled Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’)
The mottled Willow is an eye overhear ornamentalshrubknown for its variegated foliage , which sport a admixture of blank , pink , and green in outflow and early summer . Its new growth emerges with a soft pinkish chromaticity before mature to light-green and emollient . The branches are lithesome and arch graciously , giving it a fragile appearance .
Hardy in USDA zone 4 through 9 , this willow thrives in full sun to part spook and prefer systematically moist , well - run out soil . It typically grows to about 6 to 10 foot in height and width , produce it an excellent choice for foundation plantings , borders , or container gardens . It responds well to shaping and rejuvenation pruning .
veritable watering facilitate maintain its vivacious foliage , especially during dry spells . Pruning in late wintertime or former leap enhances its diversification and keep the plant compact . Though not encroaching , it benefits from occasional thinning to prevent overcrowding and maintain good air circulation .
Mountain Willow (Salix arbuscula)
The Mountain Willow is a compact deciduous shrub aboriginal to upland and alpine region of northern Europe . It is prise for its small rounded leaves with hunky-dory serration and its tolerance for cold climate and pitiable grease . In leap , it produces small yellowish catkins that pull in pollinator .
This sturdy willow grow well in USDA zone 2 through 6 and is dead suitable for stone gardens , alpine landscapes , and high top environments . It continue low to the solid ground , typically reaching only 2 to 4 feet in superlative , and spreads slowly . It thrives in full Sunday and well drained soils , often prefer slightly acidic conditions .
Mountain Willow postulate minimal care once established . Occasional watering during wry periods helps maintain vigor , and light pruning may be done to mold the plant or remove idle growth . Its diminished height and resilience make it a peachy addition to cold climate gardens with limited space .
Coyote Willow or Narrowleaf Willow (Salix exigua)
Coyote Willow , also known as Narrowleaf Willow , is a supple , thicket forming willow tree native to much of North America . It is discern for its narrow-minded gray immature leaf and silvern appearance . This riotous grow bush is commonly found along stream , river , and wetland and take on a key role in stabilizing soil and bear wildlife .
This species grow well in USDA hardiness zone 3 through 9 and fly high in full sun and pissed or seasonally flooded soils . It can reach 10 to 20 foot tall but is often pruned lower . Its growth is dumb and suckering , forming colonies that are idealistic for erosion ascendance or naturalize landscape .
Coyote Willow needs regular moisture and spreads easily through underground rhizomes . It benefits from occasional cutting to manage spread and maintain airflow . It is not accommodate for little spaces but excels in natural or restoration planting where it can grow freely .
Blueberry Willow (Salix myrtillifolia)
The Blueberry Willow is a modest to average sized shrub with oval foliage that resemble those of blueberry plants , hence its name . The leafage is dark unripened with a glossy texture and move around yellow in fall . This northerly species is adapted to cold clime and wetland area , often found near bogs and lakeshores .
It is hardy in USDA zona 2 through 6 and favor moist to wet dirt with near drain . Blueberry Willow grows 3 to 6 foot marvelous and spreads bit by bit , making it ideal for native flora gardens , wetlands , or as a border in cool regions . It tolerates partial shade but performs best in full sunshine .
Blueberry Willow requires minimum maintenance aside from assure reproducible moisture . It can be cut back to shape or regenerate the plant every few year . Its non - trespassing roots and adaptability to wet soils make it a peachy choice for ecological landscaping and wildlife garden .
Net Leaved Willow (Salix reticulata)
Net Leaved Willow is a low growing , mat forming shrub with distinctive leaves that expose a connection of raised nervure on their surface , grant the plant its name . The foliage is dreary gullible and glossy above , pale and somewhat haired underneath . It is well suited to bumpy , alpine terrain where few other shrubs can survive .
This species flourish in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 6 and is aboriginal to mountainous and gelid realm of Europe , Asia , and North America . It typically reaches only 2 to 4 inches in height but can spread widely , spend a penny it excellent for ground cover in rock’n’roll garden and inhuman clime landscape painting . It prefer full sun and well drained , somewhat acidic soil .
Net Leaved Willow requires minuscule maintenance once lay down . Occasional watering during dry go helps maintain its vigour . Pruning is rarely needed , but trimming back old stems in early spring can facilitate advertise Modern outgrowth and exert a tidy appearance .
Creeping Willow (Salix repens)
Creeping Willow is a low spread bush with slender stems and little , narrow leaves that vary from green to silvery grey reckon on the potpourri . It is often used in landscaping for eating away control and ground cover , specially in sandy or coastal environments . In spring , it produces small ament that add seasonal interest .
This species grows well in USDA zones 4 through 7 and favor full Lord’s Day and moist , well drained grunge . aboriginal to Europe and parts of westerly Asia , it accomplish a height of 1 to 3 feet and spreads via underground stems , draw it ideal for stabilizing bank building or occupy in wide open spaces .
Creeping Willow benefit from regular watering during establishment and in dry conditions . It can be clip to control its spread or to shape the plant as want . Its ability to thrive in poor soils and expose internet site makes it a reliable alternative for difficult landscape .
Woolly Willow (Salix lanata)
Woolly Willow is a hardy , irksome growing shrub cognize for its soft , densely haired leaves that give it a silvery , velvety grain . Its succinct shape and fuzzy leaf make it extremely attractive in alpine garden and moth-eaten clime stage setting . It also bear yellowish catkins in other spring .
This coinage is aboriginal to northern Europe and division of the Arctic and is well suitable to USDA zones 2 through 6 . It commonly reaches 3 to 5 feet in height and prefers full sun and coolheaded , moist , well drained soil . Its tolerance for hint and dusty makes it idealistic for exposed sites or high EL gardens .
Woolly Willow is broken maintenance , demand only occasional watering and minimum pruning . Trimming deadened or old wood in former spring prevent it healthy and thick . Its unique appearance and hardiness make it a standout choice in specialty or wildlife garden .
Arctic Willow (Salix arctica)
Arctic Willow is a dwarf species that grows tight to the undercoat and is adapted to some of the harshest climates on Earth . Its rounded leaves are dark light-green with a silvery underside , and its arm are often conceal among mosses and rock . It produce pocket-sized ruby or xanthous catkins in give .
This willow tree is native to the Arctic tundra of North America , Europe , and Asia and is fearless in USDA zones 1 through 5 . It typically grow only a few inch tall and form spreading mats , make believe it idealistic for rock gardens , alpine plantings , or moth-eaten clime restoration projects . It prefers full Dominicus and moist , well drained soil .
Arctic Willow require little guardianship and is highly insensate patient of . auxiliary lachrymation may be needed in unusually juiceless term . It is an first-class plant for showcasing hardiness and resiliency in extreme environments while offering home ground for arctic wildlife .
Dwarf Willow (Salix herbacea)
Dwarf Willow is one of the smallest woody plants in the world , growing just 1 to 2 inch tall . It has diminutive rounded leave and carmine catkin that come forth close to the earth . Its creeping increment wont allows it to survive in frigid , wind swing environments such as tundra and alpine incline .
This species thrives in USDA zone 1 through 5 and is native to high stack and arctic regions of Europe and North America . Despite its tiny stature , it forms dull , propagate mats that help protect the dirt from erosion and patronise other alpine flora . It prefers full sun and moist , well drained soils with full constitutional content .
Dwarf Willow is exceptionally low maintenance and highly cold hardy . It benefits from occasional tearing during dry piece but requires little else . Its unequalled miniature growing makes it utter for rock garden , alpine troughs , and educational plant displays focused on extreme habitat adaptations .
Tree Willows
White Willow (Salix alba)
White Willow is a magniloquent , refined tree named for the pale , silvery undersurface of its narrow leaves . It has a liberal , open crown and is often discover near rivers and wetland , where its root word help prevent land eating away . In spring , it farm xanthous catkins , total subtle seasonal interest .
This species grows best in USDA hardiness geographical zone 4 through 9 and thrives in full sun with moist to wet filth atmospheric condition . Native to Europe and western Asia , it can hit pinnacle of 50 to 80 foot . It is usually planted in riparian restoration undertaking and large landscapes for its riotous ontogenesis and attractive leafage .
White Willow needs regular watering , specially in dry period , and benefit from occasional pruning to remove damaged branches . It is best fit for spacious website due to its size and spreading roots . Historically , the bark of this willow tree has been used for its medicinal properties .
Crack Willow (Salix fragilis)
Crack Willow gets its name from the brittle branches that get around off easy , often with a cracking sound . It is a fast growing tree diagram with bright light-green farewell and a rounded crown . This species commonly grows along riverbanks and lake , forming thickets that underpin wildlife .
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 , Crack Willow prefers full sun and wet soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought once established . It can arise up to 60 feet magniloquent and spreads easily through broken branches that take root in moist soil . Native to Europe and western Asia , it has naturalized in many parts of North America .
While it is useful for eroding control , Crack Willow can become invading in sure areas . It should be pruned regularly to pull off its shape and preclude overgrowth . Because of its speedy ontogeny and weak wood , it is best planted away from structures or public utility lines .
Black Willow (Salix nigra)
Black Willow is the largest native willow in North America and is distinguished by its dark , furrow barque and recollective , slender folio . It typically grows in floodplain , swampland , and along flow , where it stabilize soil and corroborate aquatic habitats . Its ament emerge in early spring before the leafage .
This species is hardy in USDA zona 4 through 9 and thrives in full sunlight with moisture to saturated filth . It can grow 30 to 60 feet tall and spreads via both seeds and soft touch . Black Willow is often used in ecological restoration and riparian polisher zones due to its environmental benefits .
Black Willow take regular body of water and can tolerate periodic implosion therapy . It benefits from pruning to take away weak or storm damaged outgrowth . While it grows rapidly , its wood is subdued , making it less ideal for urban areas but excellent for wildlife - focussed and conservation planting .
Bay Willow (Salix pentandra)
Bay Willow is a medium sized deciduous tree lie with for its shiny , colored green leaves that resemble those of the bay laurel . It produces fragrant chicken catkin in late spring and has a bang-up , just ontogenesis habit , making it suitable for decorative planting in moist surround .
Native to northern Europe and westerly Asia , Bay Willow flourish in USDA zones 4 through 7 . It typically turn 20 to 40 fundament magniloquent and prefer full sun to fond shade with moist , well drained filth . It is usually found near lakes , rivers , and lowland meadows .
This willow tree is relatively low alimony and can be pruned to shape or regenerate the crown . Its attractive leafage and respectable manakin make it a near candidate for parks , large garden , and weewee garden . even lacrimation see healthy development , especially during wry summers .
Goodding’s Willow (Salix gooddingii)
Goodding ’s Willow is a fast grow riparian tree aboriginal to the southwestern United States and northerly Mexico . It has broad , lance shaped leaves with a shining dark-green airfoil and a greyish underside . The tree provides vital home ground for bird and insect and is often institute along stream and riverbanks .
This species is suited to USDA hardiness zone 6 through 9 and thrives in full sun with consistently moist or wet soils . It can grow up to 40 to 60 human foot tall and is usually used in restoration projection in arid and semi arid regions due to its adaptability to streamside precondition .
Goodding ’s Willow take regular watering , especially in ironical climates , and benefits from occasional pruning to conserve bodily structure and remove deadwood . Its libertine maturation and soil stabilisation capability make it ideal for conservation areas and riparian buffers .
Humboldt Willow (Salix humboldtiana)
Humboldt Willow is a tall , elegant Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree native to Central and South America , specially found near rivers , wetland , and lakeshores . It features long , minute , bright light-green leaf and a slenderly weeping form , giving it a refined , tropic appearance . Its catkin are small and often inconspicuous but appear in early saltation .
This species grow well in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 10 , thriving in full Sunday and moist to pissed territory . Humboldt Willow can reach height of 40 to 70 feet and is specially well adapted to semitropical and tropic part . It is commonly find along river valleys and is used for erosion control and habitat return .
Care for Humboldt Willow include veritable watering to maintain moist soil , specially during dry period . It may benefit from light-headed pruning to cope shape or remove weak outgrowth . Its tolerance for implosion therapy and speedy growth make it a good choice for streambank stabilisation projects in quick climates .
Shining Willow (Salix lucida)
Shining Willow is known for its glossy , lance shaped leaves that shimmer in the sun , giving the Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree its name . It has a narrow , vertical form and acquire long yellow catkin in early leaping . The legato bark and undimmed green foliage make it attractive in both natural and ornamental landscape .
aboriginal to North America , Shining Willow grows in USDA zones 3 through 8 and is typically find along wetlands , river , and moist woodlands . It reaches meridian of 20 to 40 feet and spreads moderately , piddle it worthy for imbed in rain garden , naturalized area , or along ponds and brook .
glow Willow thrives in full sun and consistently moist dirt . It want minimal care but benefit from pruning in late winter to shape the crown or get rid of dead arm . Its strong root and tolerance for wet conditions make it valuable for controlling eating away and support wildlife home ground .
Types of Ornamental Willow Trees
Goat Willow / European Pussy Willow (Salix caprea)
Goat Willow , also sleep together as European Pussy Willow , is a minor to medium - sized Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree appreciated for its large , lenient , silvery catkins that appear in other spring before the leaves . These fuzzy catkins are often one of the first signs of spring and are pop in flowered arrangements . The tree diagram has panoptic , rounded leaves and a obtuse crown .
aboriginal to Europe and constituent of Asia , Goat Willow grow good in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8 . It typically reaches height of 20 to 30 pes and prefers full sun to partial shade . It thrives in moist stain but is more tolerant of drier conditions than many other willow specie .
This willow is down in the mouth - maintenance and welfare from episodic pruning to hold its form or transfer older woodwind instrument . It ’s an splendid choice for wildlife gardens , provide other ambrosia for bee and shelter for birds . Its tolerance to a ambit of grunge pretend it suitable for both decorative and naturalized plantings .
American Pussy Willow (Salix discolor)
American Pussy Willow is a aboriginal North American bush or small tree known for its attractive , slick ament that emerge in late wintertime to early spring . The ament , often greyish or silver , are especially gaudy before the leaves unfurl , and they provide former - season interest in garden and natural landscapes .
It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 and thrive in full sun to fond shade . This willow tree typically rise 6 to 20 feet tall and is found in moist areas such as streambanks , swamps , and wet meadows . Its natural adaptability makes it idealistic for economic consumption in aboriginal plant life gardens and restoration undertaking .
American Pussy Willow requires little care beyond regular lachrymation to keep the soil moist . It responds well to pruning and can be rejuvenated by cut one-time stems to the land . It ’s a pollinator - well-disposed species and is frequently visited by bee in early spring .
Grey Willow / Common Sallow (Salix cinerea)
Grey Willow , also called Common Sallow , is a bushy shrub or small tree diagram have intercourse for its easy , grayish foliage and fuzzy catkin that appear in early spring . The leaves are generally oval with a silvery underside , and the plant often forms dense thickets in fuddled environments .
This specie is native to Europe and westerly Asia and acquire in USDA zones 4 through 8 . It typically hit heights of 10 to 25 substructure and prefer full Dominicus to light nicety . It by nature pass in soaked woodlands , fenland , and waterlogged undercoat and is often used in ecological restoration .
Grey Willow is gentle to grow and tolerates a stove of stain as long as they are moist . It do good from steady pruning to cope its size and encourage new growth . Its dense form provides first-class home ground for birds and insect , pretend it valuable in wildlife - friendly landscape gardening .
Rosemary Willow (Salix elaeagnos)
Rosemary Willow is name for its narrow , spear - shaped leaves that resemble those of the rosemary herbaceous plant . The foliage is a silvery green with a felted underside , make the plant a soft , silvery appearance . It has a elegant , upright form and develop yellowish catkins in former leap .
This species is native to Europe and region of westerly Asia and is hardy in USDA zone 5 through 8 . It usually grows as a enceinte bush or small tree diagram , accomplish 10 to 20 feet in height . It thrives in full Dominicus and well - run out to moderately moist soils and is often find on riverbanks and hillsides .
Rosemary Willow is low - sustainment and drouth - tolerant once establish , earn it desirable for more arid stipulation than most willows . It benefits from snip to maintain a tidy Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe and can be used in ornamental landscape , erosion restraint , or naturalistic plantings .
Common Osier (Salix viminalis)
Common Osier is a tight - growing , medium - sized willow known for its farseeing , flexible branches , which have historically been used for handbasket weaving . It has narrow , fizgig - determine leave that turn chicken in the fall , and its catkin are yellow - green , appear in early spring . This species has a bushy , upright maturation habit .
aboriginal to Europe and Asia , Common Osier thrives in USDA zones 4 through 8 and prefer dampish soils . It can reach a height of 15 to 25 ft and is often find along riverbanks , wetlands , and fen . It is unremarkably used in riparian restoration projects due to its ability to stabilize soil and control erosion .
Common Osier is comparatively low-pitched - alimony and needs regular watering , especially during ironic periods . It benefits from annual pruning to promote fresh maturation and to remove any old , feeble stems . It ’s also an excellent choice for wildlife gardens , as its leg provide protection for bird .
Red Hybrid Willow (Salix × rubens)
Red Hybrid Willow is a crisscross between different willow tree specie , specifically bred for its degraded emergence and vivacious red fore . It has svelte , narrow leaves and produces long , graceful catkins that appear in early outflow . Its striking violent barque is especially obtrusive in winter , adding visual involvement to landscapes .
Hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9 , Red Hybrid Willow flourish infull sunand moist to smashed land . It can grow quickly , reaching height of 40 to 50 feet , and is often implant as a fast - develop screen or windbreak . This hybrid willow is normally found in area with ample water , such as along streams and rivers .
Red Hybrid Willow require even watering and is best planted in areas with mint of quad due to its fast growing . It may require pruning to keep its bod and transfer any branch that have become too long or weak . It ’s also effective at controlling erosion and can be used in renovation projects .
Russian Willow (Salix dasyclados)
Russian Willow is a marvellous , narrow willow tree with foresightful , slender leaves that give it a refined coming into court . It grow fuzzy , yellow - green catkins in early spring , and the tree has a distinctive upright form , make it ideal for creating privacy screens or windbreaks . Its branches are pliant , often used for traditional basketry .
aboriginal to Central Asia , Russian Willow is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 and thrives in full sun and moist , well - drain soils . It can grow up to 30 to 50 feet tall and is often found near river , wetlands , or in floodplain region . It is well - suited for planting in riparian zones to assist with erosion control .
Russian Willow benefits from even tearing , specially in ironic periods , and respond well to pruning . It can be rationalize to observe a achievable size or to remove old wood . Its dense leaf provides splendid habitat for razzing and other wildlife , making it a valuable addition to both ornamental and natural landscapes .
Basket & Coppicing Willows
Almond Willow (Salix triandra)
Almond Willow is a small to intermediate - sized tree known for its fragrant catkins that resemble those of almond trees . It has narrow , shaft - shaped leaves that turn yellow in the fall , and its catkins are pallid yellow , appear in early spring . The tree diagram has a heavy , rounded crown and can develop a middling bushy appearance .
aboriginal to Europe and parts of Asia , Almond Willow grows well in USDA zones 4 through 8 , expand in moist to cockeyed soils . It typically reaches heights of 15 to 25 infantry and is normally find along riverbanks and in floodplain area . It is often used in hedgerows , wetlands , and as an ornamental tree diagram in gardens .
Almond Willow requires consistent wet and maturate best in areas with full sun or clean tad . It benefits from regular pruning to shape the tree and remove any dead or morbid subdivision . This willow tree species is also known for its ability to attract pollinators , making it a outstanding addition to wildlife garden .
Smith’s Willow (Salix smithiana)
Smith ’s Willow is a medium - sized willow tree know for its long , slender , lance - shape leaves and its striking catkin , which appear in early spring . The leaves are glossy green on top and pale below , make a textured , variegated effect . The catkin are yellow and cylindrical , summate to the tree diagram ’s ornamental appeal .
This willow mintage is native to part of Asia and is hardy in USDA zone 4 through 8 . It typically mature between 20 and 30 feet in height and flourish in moist , well - drained territory . Smith ’s Willow is normally line up in riparian zones and along the edges of wetlands and watercourses .
Smith ’s Willow requires steady tearing , especially during wry spell , and grows best in full sun to partial tad . It can benefit from one-year pruning to advance sizeable growth and keep a manageable size . Its heavy leafage and catkins provide a great source of food and shelter for local wildlife .
Japanese Fantail Willow (Salix udensis ‘Sekka’)
The Nipponese Fantail Willow is a unique , ornamental kind known for its elegant , fan - shaped maturation radiation pattern and distinctive , weep branches . The Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree ’s leaves are slender and clear common , and its catkins are lowly and yellow-bellied , appearing in other spring . The weeping habit gives it a graceful , cascading appearance that makes it a preferent in gardens .
This willow tree is aboriginal to Japan and prosper in USDA geographical zone 5 through 8 , prefer full sun and moist , well - drained soils . It can reach heights of 15 to 25 feet , with a like bedspread , draw it a great selection for small landscape or as a specimen tree . It is commonly used in ornamental garden and as a lineament in Japanese - style landscaping .
Japanese Fantail Willow requires regular tearing , peculiarly in juiceless condition . It responds well to pruning and can be shaped to enhance its unique fan - alike form . This variety is also idealistic for attract pollinators and provide shelter for birds and other minor wildlife .
Cold-Hardy / Arctic Willows
Polar Willow (Salix polaris)
Polar Willow is a small , hardy bush that thrives in cold , northern part . It features small , narrow leaves with a silvery underside , which gives the plant a distinctive snappy appearance . Its catkin are small , appear too soon in saltation , and the plant often forms low , compact mounds or dense temporary hookup in its native habitat .
Native to Arctic and sub - Arctic regions , Polar Willow is well - suit forUSDA hardinesszones 2 through 6 , mature in extremely inhuman environs . It typically reaches heights of 6 to 12 inches , often spreading through rhizomes to form low - lying ground covering . It is unremarkably found in tundra regions and on alpine slopes .
Polar Willow requires well - drain , moist soil and thrives in full Lord’s Day or partial shade . Due to its low - grow nature , it requires minimum alimony and is specially resilient in harsh climates . It can be an fantabulous choice for alpine gardens or as earth cover in cold , cragged regions .
Grayleaf Willow (Salix glauca)
Grayleaf Willow is a small to medium - sized shrub with striking silvery - gray foliage . Its leaf are lance - shaped , with a pale , almost silvery undersurface that gives the tree its name . It produce svelte , yellowish catkin in early natural spring , offer a frail contrast against its soft foliage .
aboriginal to the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America , Europe , and Asia , Grayleaf Willow is hardy in USDA zone 2 through 6 . It typically grows 3 to 10 feet tall and is commonly obtain in wetlands , riverbanks , and boggy areas . It thrives in cold climates and is often used in wetland regaining projects .
Grayleaf Willow need consistent moisture and prefers full sun or fond shade . It is relatively dispirited - maintenance and benefit from occasional pruning to get rid of dead wood and promote salubrious growth . Its resilience in pie-eyed conditions makes it a worthful species for eroding control in riparian home ground .
Snow Willow (Salix nivalis)
Snow Willow is a unique , downhearted - growing shrub known for its diminished size and power to thrive in extreme alpine surroundings . Its leaf are small-scale and thick , with a pale underside , give it a silvern appearance . The catkins are small and chicken , blooming in early give , providing early - time of year pursuit in snow - covered landscapes .
Native to alpine part in North America , Europe , and Asia , Snow Willow grows in USDA zones 2 through 6 , making it idealistic for frigid climates . It typically strive heights of 4 to 8 inches and circulate through sneak rhizomes , mould dense mats . It is most usually found in in high spirits - altitude area with harsh , snow-covered precondition .
Snow Willow thrives in well - drained , moist soil and postulate full Lord’s Day to perform best . Due to its small size and slow growth , it require minimal care and is everlasting for low - maintenance gardens or as earth cover in craggy regions . Its ability to withstand coke and freezing temperatures makes it an excellent choice for alpine and tundra plantings .
