Species Hooker's willow
white-yellow flowers with olive stems and lime leaves

Hooker's willow

Salix hookeriana

Also Known As - coastal willow
Hooker's willow (Salix hookeriana) is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree native to the Rocky Mountains. With its smooth bark and slightly weeping habit, this willow is a great choice for mountain vistas and natural landscaping. The green foliage turns golden in the fall, and in the winter, the twisted branches offer visual interest. Flowering takes place in the spring, with fragrant yellow-green catkins. Hooker's willow can grow in a variety of soils, from dry to moist, and prefers full sun to part shade. It is also tolerant of severe cold temperatures and is a tough and resilient species.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Hardiness Zone:

4

Flowers:

Silver Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Fruits:

silver,gray,gray Fruits In Summer Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

gold,green,yellow

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Weeping pussy willows (Salix caprea 'Kilmarnock') should be watered thoroughly and deeply once every 7-10 days during the growing season (April-September). During the dormant period (October-March), only provide water every 3-4 weeks. Allow the soil to dry out between watering and never let the plant sit in water. Always check the soil moisture level by inserting your finger 2-3 inches down. If it is still wet, then skip watering until the soil is dry.

sunlight

Weeping pussy willow (Salix caprea 'Kilmarnock') requires full sun, meaning at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant thrives in sunny environments such as gardens and open meadows with dry soil. The leaves of this species are best kept out of full sun during the hottest part of the day, especially during warmer months when temperatures can invariably rise above 32 Celsius. It is best to allow this species to receive the majority of its sunlight during the morning and evening when the temperatures are cooler, as to not overexpose it to the harsh rays of the sun and to also allow for ample ventilation.

pruning

Weeping pussy willow (Salix caprea 'Kilmarnock') should be pruned twice a year: once in the fall and again in the spring. In the fall, any dead or damaged branches should be removed to keep the plant healthy. For pruning in the spring, start by cutting out any dead branches and thin branching to promote air flow and reduce the chance of disease. You can then shape the weeping pussy willow as desired, leaving the main branches and cutting away any excess growth. Pruning in the spring should be done before new buds form on the plant, usually in late winter or early spring. It’s important to keep the pruning light and to not remove too much foliage, as this could damage the plant.

Season

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

Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

Hardiness Map

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