Grey Willow, Grey Sallow
salix cinerea
Also known as: ["Common Grey Willow","Small-fruited Grey Willow"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe and Western Asia, known for its greyish leaves and catkins.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix cinerea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: near water bodies or in damp garden areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; protect from frost in late spring/early fall; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Apply fertilizer before new growth emerges; water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings (softwood or semi-hardwood) or layering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main stems; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage bushier growth. Prune to maintain desired size and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or nodes.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to prevent waterlogging. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
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
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; wilting or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf drop, but the plant is generally hardy to cold once established.
Solution: Provide wind protection in exposed areas; avoid overwatering in cold weather to prevent root rot; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially in dry conditions.
Solution: Increase watering frequency during heatwaves; provide partial shade during peak sun hours; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicylates and may exhibit mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Salix cinerea. The toxic effects are generally limited but warrant caution.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they consume parts of Salix cinerea 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 cinerea contains salicylates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal upset 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 cinerea suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, it can be pruned to maintain a manageable size.
Q: Does Salix cinerea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How fast does Salix cinerea grow?
A: It has a moderate growth rate, typically reaching maturity within 10-15 years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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