Species black willow
lime-green leaves with lime-green stems

black willow

Salix nigra

Black willow (Salix nigra) is a large shrub or small tree that is found along rivers, creeks, ponds, and lakes in the eastern United States. It typically grows from 15-30 feet tall with a trunk diameter reaching 12 inches at maturity. Black willow is known for its dark gray bark and narrow, flat, pointed leaves that are green on top and silvery or whitish underneath. Its branches tend to hang low to the ground and often droop inwards, forming an attractive canopy. Its dioecious flowers develop into small, brown, fuzzy seed capsules. Black willow is well-adapted to wetland habitats and is a keystone species providing critical shelter and food sources for many species of birds and mammals.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 9

Flowers:

Yellowish-green Flowers

Sun:

Full sun Partial sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Clay Rocky

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,black

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

Black willow trees require consistent and regular watering, especially in the first year after planting. For established trees, deep watering once per week is usually sufficient. During the heat of summer, water thoroughly once every 5-7 days, depending on the rainfall and temperature. For young trees, water twice a week for the first 3 months, then gradually decrease the frequency. Water the base of the tree, avoiding wetting the foliage, and keep the soil evenly moist. During the winter months, water every 2-3 weeks, or as needed.

sunlight

Black willow requires a minimum of 4-5 hours of direct sunlight daily in order to thrive. It is able to tolerate partial shade conditions, but will generally grow less vigorously in these settings. If planted in a sunny location, it should be shaded from the insolation during the hottest part of the day – between 11:00 and 15:00 – to prevent scorching and leaf burn. For optimal growth, the plant should be situated where it will be exposed to at least 6 hours of sunlight and shade during the day.

pruning

Black willow (Salix nigra) should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be light and selective, removing mostly dead wood, weak, damaged or diseased branches. The tree should also be shaped, which includes removing any errant stems or shoots. Heavy pruning of black willow should be avoided, as it is more susceptible to disease and pests. When heavy pruning is necessary, it is best to perform it over several years, as this is a more effective way of ensuring its long-term health.

Season

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

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Salix nigra is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.

Starts Flowering

Black willow typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Salix nigra is typically in late summer or early fall, usually between August and October.

Hardiness Map