Lusitanian willow
salix retusa
Also known as: ["Pyrenean willow","dwarf willow"]
Overview
A dwarf willow species native to high-altitude regions of Europe, characterized by its small size and hardiness.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix retusa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or containers in cool, airy positions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; mimics alpine conditions.
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 if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Monitor for leaf scorch; rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture without saturation; test pH annually.
Temperature
Hardy in cold climates, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C; prefers cool conditions during dormancy.
Protect from late frosts; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; use half-strength liquid fertilizer if needed; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late summer to early autumn when the plant is semi-hardwood.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent temperatures (15–20°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with added perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes an additional 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove deadwood, and encourage vigorous growth; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or crossing branches; make clean cuts just above buds; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for young plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning), stunted growth, or dieback in extreme heat; delayed bud break in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, potentially causing dieback or delayed spring growth if not acclimated.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering to prevent frozen root damage.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; stop in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to salicin than dogs, and ingestion of Salix retusa can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress. The compound may also affect their liver and kidneys in larger doses.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest significant amounts of Salix retusa 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 retusa contains salicin, a compound related to aspirin, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and other systemic effects when 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 retusa suitable for low-altitude gardens?
A: No, it thrives in high-altitude, alpine conditions.
Q: Does Salix retusa require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Salix retusa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
