Dwarf Willow
salix hastata
Also known as: ["Mountain Willow","Arctic Willow"]
Overview
A small, low-growing willow species native to alpine and subarctic regions, often forming dense mats or small shrubs.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix hastata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, near water sources
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderate to well-draining, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, but well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size control.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. Place in dappled shade during peak summer heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during intense midday sun; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7, tolerating temperatures between -30°C and 30°C. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures.
Protect from late frosts; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; water well after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer or hardwood cuttings in late autumn/winter.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 6–8 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early summer for softwood cuttings; late autumn for hardwood cuttings.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent temperatures between 15–20°C.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sandy loam with good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Softwood cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; hardwood cuttings may take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for hardwood cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or weak branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage vigorous growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting in a container.
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. Salix hastata is best grown in the ground where space allows.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, dieback in prolonged cold, and reduced growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop, twigs can die back, and growth halts in freezing temperatures without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base, protect from harsh winds, and avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and stunted growth due to excessive heat and drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid fertilizing in late summer to prevent tender growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicylates and may exhibit mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they ingest Salix hastata. The toxic effects are generally mild but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Salix hastata due to the presence of salicylates. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix hastata contains salicylates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix hastata suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its low-growing habit and tolerance for harsh conditions make it ideal for rock gardens.
Q: Does Salix hastata require pruning?
A: Minimal pruning is needed, primarily to remove dead or damaged stems.
Q: Can Salix hastata be grown in containers?
A: While possible, it is best suited for ground planting due to its spreading nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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