dragon's claw willow
Salix babylonica var. pekinensis 'Tortuosa'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Frequent
Propagation:
Cutting
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 8
Flowers:
Silver green Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Filtered shade, Full sun, Part sun/part shade
Fruits:
green,yellow Fruits In Summer Ready In
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Moderate
watering
Dragon's Claw Willow should be watered once per week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Do not let the soil dry out completely between watering. If the soil does dry out, thoroughly water the plant until moisture reaches the deepest part of the soil. During the growing season, water slightly more often (about twice per week). In winter, once a week is usually sufficient, unless the plant is in a very dry spot with inadequate air circulation or is growing in a container. Furthermore, misting of the leaves with water is a beneficial addition to the plant’s care.
sunlight
Dragon's claw willow (Salix babylonica var. pekinensis 'Tortuosa') prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours per day. This plant species thrives in sunny locations where it receives plenty of light during the day. The ideal hours for this plant to receive the most direct sunlight is between 10 AM and 4 PM. The plant should be kept in areas that receive full sunlight throughout the day for best results.
pruning
Dragon's Claw Willow should be pruned in mid-summer, typically during late July or early August. Pruning should be kept to a minimum, as the shrubs are resilient and only require minor trimming each year. To start, remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches near the base of the shrub. This will help promote air circulation and reduce the risk of disease. Next, thin out any overly dense areas by removing a few of the oldest, tallest stems. This will help give the plant a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing shape. With Dragon's Claw Willows, it's also important to isolate any shoots that have multiple branches near the base. This makes them less likely to break or be damaged in strong winds. Finally, it's a good idea to remove any branches that are competing with the main stem for dominance. Doing this should help the tree maintain its shape and keep it looking attractive.