Species downy willow

downy willow

Salix lapponum

Downy Willow (Salix lapponum) is a shrubby species of tree native to Europe and Asia. It grows up to 10 feet tall and is known for its short, densely-haired twigs. The leaves are wide, velvety and gray-green in appearance. It an attractive sight in spring, with its bright yellow blooms. In late summer, small, round capsules filled with white hairs appear on the plant. These contain the seeds which enable it to quickly spread and form thickets. Prefers moist soils, Downy Willow is a hardy species due to its tolerance of cold weather and its fast-growing nature.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Yellow to red anthers Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Downy willow (Salix lapponum) requires a moderate amount of water and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Water at the base of the plant, taking care to avoid getting the leaves wet. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. During the growing season (spring to fall), water thoroughly about once a week. In winter reduce watering to every 2 weeks, or as needed.

sunlight

Downy willow (Salix lapponum) prefers to grow in full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can also tolerate some shade, though it should receive at least a few hours of direct sunshine each day. During the summer, temperatures should remain consistently warm, ideally between 65 to 85°F (18-29°C). In the winter, temperatures should stay mostly above freezing (32°F or 0°C).

pruning

Downy willow (Salix lapponum) should be pruned in late winter to early spring (March) before new growth appears. Pruning should be light and selective, removing deadwood and 1/3 of the previous year's growth. Remove crossing, diseased or damaged branches first. Downy willow should not be pruned to the ground as this can weaken it. Do not prune in late summer, as the cuts could be vulnerable to the new growth of insect pests and disease.

Season

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

Downy willow typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map