Creeping Willow
salix repens
Also known as: ["Dwarf Willow","Creeping Pussy Willow"]
Overview
A low-growing, deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia, characterized by its creeping stems and small, narrow leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, tolerates wet meadows or near water bodies
- 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; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Moist, fertile, well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils but thrives with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; add organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy to USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold but prefers moderate temperatures (50–75°F); may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth; stop in fall to avoid tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in late summer or early fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late summer to early fall when stems are semi-hardwood.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); indirect light; warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, peat-perlite mix, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use semi-hardwood cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the plant; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; Salix repens is vigorous and may outgrow its pot quickly.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; ensure good drainage with sand or perlite.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold; stunted growth in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; branches may die back in severe cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf drop; reduced flowering; potential for heat stress in temperatures above 85°F.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicin, and ingestion of Salix repens can lead to gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects. While toxicity is generally mild, cats should not be allowed to consume any part of the plant due to their lower tolerance for such compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Salix repens due to the presence of salicin. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion can cause discomfort and should be monitored. Puppies or small dogs may be more susceptible to adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix repens, commonly known as creeping willow, contains salicin, a compound chemically related to aspirin. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects due to its anti-inflammatory properties. The toxicity is generally low for humans but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals or with large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix repens suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, its low-growing habit makes it suitable for small gardens and rockeries.
Q: Does Salix repens require regular pruning?
A: Light pruning can help maintain shape, but it is not strictly necessary.
Q: Does Salix repens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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