Plant Encyclopedia

Description:

A tough, low-branched shade tree with golden branches, very showy in winter, adaptable to all soils, performs well even in standing water, makes an excellent windbreak; tends to drop branchlets, aggressive root system, so do not plant near homes

Ornamental Features

Golden Willow has rich green deciduous foliage on a tree with a round habit of growth. The glossy narrow leaves turn gold in fall. The furrowed brown bark and gold branches are extremely showy and add significant winter interest.

Landscape Attributes

Golden Willow is a dense deciduous tree with a more or less rounded form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a high maintenance tree that will require regular care and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Messy
• Invasive

Golden Willow is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade
• Windbreaks and Shelterbelts

Planting & Growing

Golden Willow will grow to be about 50 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 50 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 80 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is an amazingly adaptable plant, tolerating both dry conditions and even some standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.