Mountain Willow
salix appendiculata
Also known as: ["Mountain Willow","Appendiculate Willow"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to mountainous regions, known for its slender branches and catkins.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix appendiculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: near water bodies or in moist garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
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; can be pruned back by one-third to one-half if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; position in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in active growth or drought
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration, avoid compacted soil, maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold winters (down to -25°C) but prefers moderate temperatures (15–25°C) during active growth.
Protect from late frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, place in medium, maintain humidity, monitor for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (20–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage bushiness, and removal of crossing/rubbing stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage vigorous growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune at correct time, make clean cuts, remove debris, assess plant shape.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, monitor for stress.
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 without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
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 wilt or turn yellow; branches can become brittle and prone to breakage.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from drying winds; avoid overwatering in cold soil.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, and reduced vigor due to excessive heat and drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use evaporative cooling methods like misting.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer, apply at correct time, avoid overfertilization, monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid feeding in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicin and may exhibit mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume parts of Salix appendiculata. The compound can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Salix appendiculata due to the presence of salicin. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix appendiculata contains salicin, a compound chemically related to aspirin, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and other symptoms if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally mild but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix appendiculata suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a manageable size.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun.
Q: Are the catkins of Salix appendiculata fragrant?
A: No, the catkins are not typically fragrant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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