Salix alba
Silver willow
Common names: White willow
Photo: Burkhard Mücke · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source
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Description
The Silver willow (Salix alba) is one of the large native trees that grow along streams, rivers, and pond banks. Its narrow leaves bear fine silver hairs on the underside, which shimmer conspicuously in the wind. In April to May, the inconspicuous catkins appear long before nearby berry shrubs bloom. When pruned as a head willow, it remains compact and provides flexible poles for weaving and fence construction for decades. In a home garden it is suitable only with ample space and a truly moist to wet site.
Care instructions
Plant the Silver willow in a sunny spot with permanently moist, preferably occasionally flooded soil. Young trees need regular watering during the first year; thereafter they usually find enough water through their deep roots. If you want to grow it as a head willow, prune it heavily for the first time after 2 to 3 years and repeat the cut every 3 to 5 years in winter, when there is no frost. Without regular pruning, the Silver willow becomes very large, making it unsuitable for small gardens. Ensure sufficient distance from pipes and foundations when planting, as the roots are strong and extensive.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich, loamy
Feeding
Medium feeder
Pruning
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