Nishiki Willow – Georama Growers Plant of the Week

February 7, 2014 Case News

Common Names:      Hakuro- nishiki Willow, Dappled Willow

Botanical Name:       Salix integra

Well, looks like we are getting another blast of winter! Spring still feels like such a long time away, but not to worry it will come – I promise. This week’s subject is a wonderfully variegated and dappled willow, it is one of the smaller members of the willow family, and can be grown as a small tree or large shrub. Sometimes called the ‘Dappled Willow’ the Nishiki willow as it is popularly known here is deciduous and in the spring the leaves emerge pink and then mature to a variegated creamy white and green – giving the foliage a dappled appearance. The leaves are long and narrow, borne on graceful branches that flutter in even a light breeze. The leaves turn yellow in the fall and remain on the plant until late October – sometimes even into November! The twigs will turn red in the winter adding to its four season interest in your garden or landscape. Nishiki willows grow best in moist, fertile soils but will adapt to drier conditions once established. Prune in the late winter to maintain a smaller size and to promote good colour – as it is the young growth that will really stand out. Planted against a dark background this beautiful small willow with its interesting colours is sure to be one of your garden favorites.