Species Boyds dwarf willow
teal-green leaves with olive-brown stems

Boyds dwarf willow

Salix boydii

Boyds dwarf willow (Salix boydii) is a small, deciduous shrub native to North America. It grows up to 1 foot tall with foliage that is bright silver-green in color and turns yellow in fall. Its small, white flowers bloom in mid to late spring. These flowers are followed by small, black seed capsules. This species is highly adaptable, thriving in a variety of habitats such as moist meadows, woodlands, and even alpine tundra. It is a popular ornamental, valued for its graceful cascading branches and year-round interest.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

Boyds dwarf willow requires regular water with moderate amounts in the spring and summer months. It prefers soil that is consistently moist, but not wet, in order to maintain its health. It is important to not overwater the plant, as it can be prone to root rot when left in standing water. The best way to water the plant is to thoroughly soak the soil until water runs out from the pot's drainage holes, and then let the soil dry out somewhat before watering again. In the winter, water the plant only when the soil is completely dry and the leaves begin to look wilted.

sunlight

Boyds dwarf willow (Salix boydii) should be grown in an area that receives full sun. Full sun exposure is at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Boyds dwarf willow prefers full sun in the morning and afternoon with partial shade in the afternoon before dusk. Planting in an area with good air circulation will also help prevent some fungal diseases. Watering 1-2 times per week is generally adequate for the Boyds dwarf willow, as it is adapted to the dry conditions of northwestern California and southwestern Oregon. Withhold water during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

pruning

Pruning the Boyd's Dwarf Willow should be done in late winter or early spring (February). Pruning should be done lightly, removing only 1 or 2 branches at a time and leaving the overall shape of the plant intact. This will allow for the natural shape of the plant to remain and minimize the risk of disease and infection. The pruning should not remove more than 30 percent of the total plant. Some pruning may be necessary for shaping the plant or removing dead or diseased branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Boyds dwarf willow typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map