Pyrenean Willow

salix pyrenaica

Also known as: ["Pyrenean Willow"]

Family: Salicaceae Genus: Salix Category: Shrubs

Overview

A small, deciduous shrub willow species native to the Pyrenees mountains, characterized by its slender branches and small, lance-shaped leaves.

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 pyrenaica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: moist, sheltered garden bed or container with good drainage
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°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, slightly acidic to neutral soil; mix of loam, sand, and organic matter.
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 if needed.
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.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering); stunted growth (poor soil); root rot (poor drainage).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather.

Soil

moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil

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

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter for fertility.

Temperature

Hardy in cool to cold climates; tolerates temperatures down to -20°C; prefers cool conditions during dormancy.

Protect from extreme cold; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain cool conditions in summer.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly; avoid late-season feeding; use organic options for slow release.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Late summer to early autumn when stems are semi-hardwood.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%); indirect light; consistent warmth (15–20°C).

Medium

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

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for better success.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning; heading back of overgrown branches; removal of dead or damaged wood.

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), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune before bud break; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Use fresh soil; check root health; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; 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; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water regularly during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback in prolonged cold without protection; stunted growth in unsuitable temperatures.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; branches can die back; overall growth slows or halts.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from harsh winds; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.

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

Yellowing of leaves in Salix pyrenaica may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Salix pyrenaica is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Salix pyrenaica may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Salix pyrenaica can be caused by excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are sensitive to salicylates and may exhibit mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress if they consume parts of Salix pyrenaica. The toxic effects are dose-dependent.

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

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Dogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Salix pyrenaica due to the presence of salicylates. 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 the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Salix pyrenaica contains salicylates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort, though larger doses may lead to more pronounced symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea stomach pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bark leaves catkins
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep away from children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical advice.
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 pyrenaica suitable for small gardens?

A: Yes, its compact size makes it suitable for smaller garden spaces.

Q: Does Salix pyrenaica require full sun?

A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.

Q: Does Salix pyrenaica have any medicinal uses?

A: Traditional uses are limited, but willows in general have been used for their salicin content.

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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