Unknown

salix breviserrata

Also known as: ["Unknown"]

Family: Salicaceae Genus: Salix Category: Trees

Overview

A species of willow native to certain regions, characterized by its serrated leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Salicaceae
Genus: Salix
Botanical Name: Salix breviserrata

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: near water bodies or in moist garden beds
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • 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: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; suitable for wet conditions but needs aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • 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.
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 intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or compacted soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

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 during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-drained loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture without saturation; amend with organic matter annually.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold winters; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F) during active growth.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings taken in early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait 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 (65–75°F).

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone powder or liquid recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Shape the plant, remove dead or weak growth, encourage bushier form and better flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.

Checklist

Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape plant, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage, water lightly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young, fast-growing plants.

Checklist

Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base, ensuring even saturation of the root zone; allow excess to drain freely; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
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; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.

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 discolor; growth slows; severe cold can cause dieback or death.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from freezing winds; move container plants indoors if temperatures drop below -20°C.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf drop, or scorched foliage due to excessive heat and dry conditions.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use evaporative cooling methods like misting.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Salix breviserrata may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Salix breviserrata can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Salix breviserrata may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Salix breviserrata due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are sensitive to salicylates and may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Salix breviserrata. The toxic effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in small or sensitive cats.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bark leaves catkins
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from willow plants. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Salix breviserrata due to the presence of salicin. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bark leaves catkins
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from chewing or ingesting willow parts. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Salix breviserrata, a species of willow, contains salicin and other salicylates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bark leaves catkins
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of willow bark, leaves, or catkins. Handle with care, especially if you have a salicylate sensitivity.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Salix breviserrata toxic to pets?

A: Information on toxicity to pets is currently unknown.

Q: What are the common problems with Salix breviserrata?

A: Common problems include wilting, leaf spots, and mould or fungal growth.

Q: Is Salix breviserrata suitable for beginners?

A: It has moderate care difficulty, making it more suitable for those with some gardening experience.

Quick Reference
Family: Salicaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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