Dwarf Willow
salix serpyllifolia
Also known as: ["Thyme-leaved Willow","Dwarf Willow"]
Overview
A small, deciduous shrub with thyme-like leaves and slender branches, typically found in moist habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Genus: | Salix |
| Botanical Name: | Salix serpyllifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- 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":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moist; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, but well-draining soil; loamy or sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adaptable to dappled light in warmer climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf scorch; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°C to 30°C; prefers cool roots and moderate air temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in fall to prepare for dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer; layering in spring; division of root clumps in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; early spring for layering or division.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); indirect light; warm temperatures (18–24°C); protect from drafts.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 8–12 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire stems at the base; heading back to shorten stems and encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to encourage bushier growth; remove dead or weak stems to improve vigor; maintain desired size and form.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during extreme temperatures.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; trim roots if crowded; position plant correctly; water well.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; mulch surface to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress; stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; potential dieback of tender stems in prolonged cold.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from cold winds; move container plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf edges burn; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply and more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose appropriate fertilizer; apply at correct dilution; fertilize during active growth; cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are more sensitive to salicylates than dogs, and ingestion of Salix serpyllifolia can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. The presence of salicin may also cause allergic reactions in some cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Salix serpyllifolia due to the presence of salicin. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion can lead to discomfort and allergic reactions in some dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix serpyllifolia contains salicin, a compound related to aspirin, 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 serpyllifolia suitable for small gardens?
A: Yes, its compact size makes it ideal for small garden spaces.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It tolerates partial shade but thrives in full sun.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, ensuring soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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