Common Osier
salix viminalis
Also known as: ["Basket Willow","Withy"]
Overview
A fast-growing deciduous shrub or small tree known for its long, flexible stems used in basket weaving.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix viminalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, riverbanks, or wetland areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining; can tolerate occasional waterlogging but prefers good drainage.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; can be coppiced (cut to near ground level) for biomass production.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for light penetration.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow applications.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture; enrich with organic amendments annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 2–8; tolerates temperatures from -40°F to 100°F; prefers cool roots and moderate air temperatures.
Protect from late frosts; avoid placing near heat sources; monitor soil temperature for root health.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Test soil before fertilizing; apply fertilizer to moist soil; rinse foliage after application to prevent burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (hardwood or softwood); layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stems.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for softwood cuttings; late summer for hardwood cuttings.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) for rooting.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Softwood cuttings root in 3–4 weeks; hardwood cuttings take 6–8 weeks; establishment in new pots takes 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches; heading cuts to shorten branches; coppicing for renewal.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage vigorous new shoots for biomass production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts; remove crossing branches; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; essential for vigorous growth in containers.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if pot-bound; use fresh soil mix; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water early in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, increasing frequency to twice weekly in hot, dry periods; reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; dieback or delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, delayed growth, or dieback of tender tissues.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, reduced growth, and water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil pH; follow label instructions; water before and after fertilizing; avoid contact with stems or leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Salix viminalis. The salicylic compounds can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Salix viminalis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of salicylic compounds. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix viminalis, commonly known as common osier or basket willow, contains salicylic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix viminalis suitable for basket weaving?
A: Yes, it is specifically cultivated for its long, flexible stems used in basket making.
Q: Does Salix viminalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and habitat.
Q: How fast does Salix viminalis grow?
A: It is a very fast-growing plant, often reaching significant height within a few years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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