Article by David Marks Salix are willow trees and some grow to huge heights and spread, only suitable for larger yards and parks. Salix integra is a dwarf species of willowtypically growing to between 2m / 6ft to 6m / 20ft tall. One particular varietyof Salix integra is universally accepted as one of the best (probably the best)for small to medium sized and it is Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’.
Use the checklist belowto decide if Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’ is the correct plant for you and your :
The popular dwarf willow known as the flamingo tree (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’) is known for its springtime foliage. In the spring the leaves emerge with a mix of green white, and flamingo-pink tips. The leaves then fade to green in summer, and in fall, when they drop, coral-orange stems emerge. Yellow catkins appear before the new spring foliage returns.
The small tree or shrub Salix integra “Hakuro-nishiki” is quite compact, making it perfect for smaller gardens. It is often sold as a standard or lollipop tree, grafted onto a different variety of willow rootstock. The Royal Horticultural Society awarded it the prestigious Award of Garden Merit, which makes it a great choice for any garden.
Here are some tips on caring for a Salix integra to keep it looking beautiful in your garden:
Choosing the Right Location
-
Salix integra prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.
-
Well-drained soil is crucial, The roots demand constant moisture but hate soggy conditions Select a site with loamy soil that drains well after rain
-
Allow plenty of space for growth. Depending on variety, it can reach 6-10 feet tall and wide at maturity.
Planting Your Salix Integra
-
Spring is the best time to plant, when the soil has warmed but before summer heat arrives.
-
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Loosen the soil and mix in compost to improve drainage.
-
Place the shrub in the hole at the same level it was growing in the nursery pot. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.
-
Spread 2-3 inches of mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce weeds. Leave space between mulch and stems.
Providing Consistent Irrigation
-
Water deeply once a week if rain is lacking. Salix integra is native to stream banks and needs moisture.
-
Increase watering during summer heat. Prioritize watering if drought occurs. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation.
-
Container grown plants need more frequent watering, even daily. Check soil moisture and don’t allow pots to dry out.
-
Add moisture retaining mulch yearly. Apply water to the root zone rather than overhead.
Feeding Your Shrub
-
Fertilize in spring with a balanced organic fertilizer or slow-release product made for ornamentals.
-
Avoid high nitrogen formulas which can spur leggy growth. Aim for even feeding.
-
For potted plants, apply a water soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
-
Mulch annually with compost to provide nutrients over time as it breaks down.
Pruning for Best Form
-
Prune in early spring before growth begins to shape and invigorate the plant.
-
Remove dead, damaged or crossing branches using sharp bypass pruners. Cut back to an outward facing bud.
-
Thin inner stems to open airflow and light penetration into the shrub center.
-
Renewal pruning can be done every 2-3 years if overgrown. Cut all stems back by 1/3 their height.
-
For dwarf cultivars under 3 feet tall, shearing into a neat ball shape is effective.
Preventing and Controlling Pests
-
Salix integra is relatively pest resistant but aphids, scale, and spider mites can sometimes be problems.
-
Rinse off aphids with a strong spray of water. For other pests, use appropriate organic insecticidal soap.
-
Promote healthy growth through proper care. This helps the shrub better withstand and recover from pest damage.
-
Remove and destroy heavily infested parts. Monitor for reinfestation and retreat if needed.
Watching for Disease Issues
-
Powdery mildew and leaf spots may affect foliage, mainly in wet conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
-
Remove affected leaves or stems if disease is severe. Rake and dispose of fallen debris promptly.
-
Preventive fungicide applications when disease first appears can help avoid spreading. Use organic options for mild cases.
-
Disinfect tools between cuts when pruning diseased shrubs. Focus on promoting vigorous growth for resistance.
Overwintering Protection
-
Salix integra is quite cold hardy but some protection may be needed in zones 5 and below.
-
Wrap or surround the shrub with burlap in late fall. Top with evergreen branches for insulation if intense cold is expected.
-
Container grown plants should be moved into an unheated garage or building once temperatures drop below freezing.
-
Water well before ground freezes. Mulch over the root zone to insulate roots from temperature extremes.
With attentive care focused on proper moisture, drainage, feeding, and occasional pruning, your Salix integra will remain beautiful for many years of enjoyment. Take time to appreciate its graceful form, vibrant young foliage, showy stems, and multi-season interest. A happy Salix integra will enhance your landscape with its natural elegance and delightful colors.
HOW TO PLANT SALIX INTEGRA HAKURO-NISHIKI
Follow the steps below to ensure your Salix integra Hakuro-nishiki is planted correctly:
- Choose a position in full or partial sun where the soil can be kept moist and free-draining.
- Allow about 2m / 6ft for the shrub to grow. Smaller plants will growsuccessfully around the base of this shrub if required. Height at maturity is 2m/ 6ft.
- Mid September to October are the best times to plant a Salix integra. If they are planted at other times they may initially suffer from leaf scorch ifthe weather turns hot.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the rootball. Sprinkle in a handful of blood, fish and bone and work into the ground.
- Place the plant into the hole, filling in with soil so that it is at thesame depth as was in the pot. Fill around the rootball and firm the soil down gently but firmly. Water well to settle the surrounding ground around the rootball.
PRUNING A STANDARD FORM SALIX INTEGRA HAKURO-NISHIKI
When growing Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’ in a standardform, you will have a clear stem of 60cm / 2ft or more and the top will bestems and foliage. For the first, second and third prunings follow the samerules as for the shrub form but try to prune the stems to a globe shape.
FOURTH PRUNINGS ONWARDS Cut the head of the shrub back by half in a globe shape. Check the main stem below the head and prune away completely any growth from it.Standard forms of Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki are grafted onto a quick growingwillow variety and any growth from the main stem is unwanted.
Flamingo Willow Salix With Peter McDermott
FAQ
Is Salix Integra sun or shade?
Performs best in full sun to part shade , in fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Prefers full sun, but welcomes some afternoon shade in hot summer areas. Best foliage color occurs in cool summer areas (north of USDA Zone 7).
How do you prune a Salix Integra?
PRUNING A BUSH FORM SALIX INTEGRA HAKURO-NISHIKI
If you plant the shrub in spring, wait until next spring before giving thefirst pruning. The first time you prune this shrub cut it back byabout a third using a pair of sharp secateurs. If you see any dead wood or stemstouching the ground, prune those out as well.
Where is the best place to plant a Salix tree?
Grow Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’ in moist but well drained soil, in full sun or dappled shade. Standard trees grow well in a pot, as long as they are well watered.
How often do you water Salix?
Salix Integra Hakuro-Nishiki needs 0.8 cups of water every 9 days when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5.0″ pot.