Arctic willow
salix lapponum
Also known as: ["Arctic willow","Lapland willow"]
Overview
A small, low-growing willow species native to Arctic and alpine regions, characterized by its creeping habit and small, narrow leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix lapponum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: moist, open areas, often near water bodies or in wetlands
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–6"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, but well-draining soil; loamy or sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: 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 daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
moist, well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in cold climates; tolerates temperatures down to -40°C (-40°F); prefers cool conditions during dormancy.
Protect from late frost; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize sparingly; focus on nitrogen for leafy growth; cease fertilization before winter.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer; hardwood cuttings in late autumn or winter.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stems.
- Cut below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early summer for softwood cuttings; late autumn or winter for hardwood cuttings.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); indirect light; consistent temperatures around 18–21°C (65–70°F).
Medium
Peat and perlite mix; or sandy loam for hardwood cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Softwood cuttings root in 4–6 weeks; hardwood cuttings may take 2–3 months to root and establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open up the canopy; heading cuts to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage vigorous growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; Salix lapponum is typically grown in the ground, so repotting is not usually required unless grown in a container.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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 morning 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 well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection; reduced growth in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt or turn yellow; branches can die back; overall growth slows or halts.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from drying winds; avoid excessive winter watering.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf drop, or scorching; reduced flowering; stunted growth.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at recommended rate; water after fertilizing; monitor plant response.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicylates, and ingestion of Salix lapponum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic effects are generally mild but can be more severe in cats with pre-existing health conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Salix lapponum. The salicylates present can cause irritation to the digestive tract, leading to discomfort. In rare cases, allergic reactions may occur.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix lapponum, commonly known as Lapland willow, contains salicin and other salicylates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The physiological impact is generally mild but can be more pronounced in large quantities or with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix lapponum suitable for garden landscaping?
A: Yes, it is suitable for rock gardens, alpine plantings, and areas with cold climates.
Q: Does Salix lapponum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers and habitat value.
Q: How should Salix lapponum be cared for?
A: It requires well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade; minimal watering is needed once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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