Species Sandbar Willow

Sandbar Willow

Salix exigua

The Sandbar Willow (Salix exigua) is a small, deciduous tree native to North America. It is usually found near rivers, streams, and lakes, where it is commonly used in landscaping and restoration projects. The tree features a spreading, upright form that offers a brilliant color of golden green or yellow in the spring, and deep green foliage in the summer. Its leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, growing up to five inches in length. It also bears small, greenish-yellow or yellowish-white catkins in the spring. The Sandbar Willow will produce a light shade beneath it, making it an ideal choice for those looking to provide a shaded area in riverbanks and wetlands.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

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

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

Full sun Partial sun

Soil:

Sandy

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Low

watering

For Sandbar Willow (Salix exigua), it is important to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil becomes dry. Water deeply once or twice per week, depending on the weather conditions and soil. During warmer weather, more frequent watering may be necessary. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root-rot and can kill the plant. Reduce water during cooler weather, as the plant is actively growing.

sunlight

Sandbar Willow (Salix exigua) is a sun-loving species that prefers a full sun exposure throughout the day. This species has low light requirements and will tolerate some shade, but flowering and plant health may be impaired in lower light levels. For optimal growth, this species should receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, Sandbar Willow will benefit from some afternoon shade during periods of extreme heat. Providing optimal sunlight conditions throughout the growing season will encourage strong growth and production of flowers.

pruning

Sandbar Willow (Salix exigua) should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning should consist of removing crossed, damaged, and diseased branches. Young trees should be pruned to remove long, upright shoots and to correct structure so the tree grows wide and full rather than tall and spindly. As the tree ages and the canopy thickens, thinning older branches may be necessary to maintain an even, attractive shape. Deadwood can also be pruned to reduce the risk of disease. Much of the pruning depends on the desired shape of the tree.