Netted-leaved Willow
salix reticulata
Also known as: ["Netted Willow","Dwarf Willow"]
Overview
A low-growing, creeping willow species native to alpine and arctic regions, characterized by its small, net-veined leaves and ability to thrive in harsh conditions.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix reticulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cold climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–4"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, acidic to neutral soil mix; peat-based with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, reduce to 4–6 hours in warmer regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for signs of stress; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity; use shade cloth if necessary.
Watering
every 7–10 days, or when top inch of soil is dry
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid frequent shallow watering; ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, acidic to neutral peat-based soil
pH: 5.5–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Cool to cold temperatures preferred; ideal range 5–15°C (41–59°F); tolerates frost but avoid extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize sparingly; use a balanced formula; apply before active growth begins.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings taken in early summer yield the best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture and humidity.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is semi-hard; avoid dormant periods.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%); indirect light; maintain temperatures around 10–15°C (50–59°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage; maintain consistent moisture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth; remove crossing or damaged stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage bushier form; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm (1–1.5 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, rapidly growing plants.
Checklist
Check root boundness; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
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. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but are generally tolerated; prolonged freezing without protection can damage buds and stems.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may lead to premature leaf drop.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply but infrequently to avoid stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check soil fertility; use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
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 reticulata. The compound can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Salix reticulata 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 reticulata contains salicin, a compound similar to aspirin, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other adverse effects 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 reticulata suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is primarily an outdoor plant adapted to alpine and arctic conditions.
Q: Does Salix reticulata have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, but willow species are known for salicin, a compound related to aspirin.
Q: How does Salix reticulata differ from other willows?
A: It is a dwarf, creeping species with small, net-veined leaves, unlike the larger, tree-like willows.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, or when top |
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