Unknown
salix breviserrata
Also known as: ["Unknown"]
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:
- 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.
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 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
- 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.
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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix 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:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
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 |
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