Almond Willow, Meadow Willow
salix triandra
Also known as: ["Meadow Willow","Almond-leaved Willow"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, known for its lance-shaped leaves and catkins.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix triandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: near water bodies, in garden beds, or as a specimen tree in open spaces
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive soil is preferred.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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 (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though it can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually if moving from shade to sun to prevent leaf scorch. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to protect from intense heat. Indoors, place near a south-facing window for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant regularly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot, dry conditions
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid waterlogging the roots.
Soil
moist, fertile, loamy soil with good drainage
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged; amend with organic matter annually; check pH every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers temperate conditions, thriving in 60–75°F (15–24°C). Can tolerate cooler temperatures but is sensitive to extreme heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; use a balanced NPK ratio; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method, taken in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and shaded.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall, when the plant is semi-hardwood and less prone to stress.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F) are ideal.
Medium
A mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand provides good drainage and aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks, with establishment taking an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage vigorous growth, and remove dead or diseased wood. Also prune to manage size and promote flowering if applicable.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in late winter; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins is the best time to repot.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger in diameter (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container, as Salix triandra can become root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water well after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture penetrates deeply to encourage deep root growth. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, increasing to twice weekly during hot, dry periods. Reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure. Incorporate perlite or sand to improve drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf drop. Prolonged freezing can damage buds and young shoots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter to insulate roots. Protect young plants with burlap screens in harsh winters.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak afternoon heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Fertilize in spring; use balanced formula; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to salicylates, and ingestion of Salix triandra can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. The effects can be more pronounced in cats compared to dogs due to their limited ability to metabolize salicylates.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Salix triandra due to the presence of salicin. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion can cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix triandra, commonly known as almond willow, contains salicin, a compound chemically related to aspirin. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects, particularly in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix triandra suitable for wet soil conditions?
A: Yes, it thrives in moist to wet soils and is often found near water bodies.
Q: Does Salix triandra have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, willow species have been used for pain relief, though specific uses for S. triandra are limited.
Q: How tall does Salix triandra grow?
A: It typically reaches 6–12 meters in height, depending on growing conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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