Stinking Willow
salix foetida
Also known as: ["Black Willow","Stinking Sallow"]
Overview
A deciduous tree or large shrub in the willow family, known for its unpleasant odor when leaves are crushed.
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 foetida |
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 well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, but well-draining soil; tolerates clay but prefers loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy; can be pruned hard for rejuvenation 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 new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters but prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F); protect from extreme heat.
Monitor seasonal changes; protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize once in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if needed; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or hardwood cuttings in late winter/early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or perlite/peat mixture.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot or ground within a growing season.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage vigorous growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at correct time; remove dead/diseased wood; make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown specimens.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; 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 to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; dieback or delayed growth in cold stress; wilting or browning in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause dieback of new growth; prolonged cold may damage roots or lead to winter kill in less hardy varieties.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with burlap in severe cold; choose hardy cultivars for colder regions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may lead to premature leaf drop.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; apply at correct time; avoid contact with roots; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer to prevent tender growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to salicylic compounds, and ingestion of Salix foetida may result in mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset. The plant should be kept away from cats to prevent accidental consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Salix foetida can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of salicylic compounds. While generally not life-threatening, ingestion may cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSalix foetida, commonly known as stinking willow, contains salicylic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort, though excessive consumption may lead to more pronounced effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salix foetida toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Salix foetida have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, but willows in general have been used for pain relief.
Q: How fast does Salix foetida grow?
A: It grows at a moderate rate, typically reaching maturity in 10-20 years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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