Salix selection
The genus Salix comprises about 400 species of deciduous trees and shrubs found mainly in wet, cold and temperate areas. None are native to New Zealand. Salix comes in several forms including weeping, upright and tortured, and is one of the fastest growing plants in the world, with some varieties growing as much as 2.2m in height each year.
The seven selections available at Blue Mountain Nurseries are:
Salix ‘Tortured Black’: The branches and dark stems are twisted and contorted like a corkscrew. It makes an attractive ornamental tree for wet sites, and is great for cut stems for floral work.
Salix ‘Tortured Coral’: Displays unusual red, twisted branches that adopt shades of orange as they age. The yellow spring catkins are followed by bright green, lance-shaped foliage. It can handle exposed conditions.
Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Gold’ (golden willow):
Displays bright yellow-orange stems in winter, and narrow, finely toothed leaves in spring and summer.
Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Yellow’: Yellow stems and attracts butterflies. Grows in full sun to part shade, and in medium to wet soil conditions.
Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Red’: Its bright orange-red stems glow throughout the winter. Grows well in full sun to part shade. Salix alba var. vitellina ‘Black’: Stunning dark black stems provide structural interest in the winter garden. Will tolerate a wide range of soil types. Salix gracilistyla ‘Melanostachys’ (black pussy willow): An attractive Japanese shrub with black catkins in early spring, and serrated green leaves.