Species

Salix albaWhite Willow

1 other cultivar

‘Golden Ness’Golden Willow

tree

Coral Bark Willow

Salix alba 'Britzensis'

The Story

Plant Bio

A fast-growing, large deciduous tree, often coppiced to grow as a multi-stemmed shrub. It is prized for its brilliant orange-red young stems, which provide striking winter color.

The vibrant stem color is most intense on the previous season's growth, so it is best pruned hard every 1-3 years in late winter to early spring.

Uses & Benefits:

Salix alba Britzensis features striking yellow stems that brighten winter landscapes, adding visual interest and texture.

Its rapid growth makes it an effective natural screen or windbreak, providing privacy and shelter.

Supports local wildlife by providing habitat and nectar for pollinators.

SpeciesSalix albaWhite Willow

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

600 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Requires regular moisture

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

20-50 years

Native To

Europe and Western Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a moist, well-drained site with full sun exposure.
Tuck cuttings or plant young saplings in early spring or fall.
Ensure soil remains consistently moist during establishment.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant established plants after 1-2 years for best growth.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use hardwood cuttings in late winter for faster propagation success.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
Prune in late winter to maintain shape
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid waterlogging the roots ❌
Do not prune during the growing season
Refrain from planting in extremely dry soils

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery‑foliaged hedgeOrnamental screenSoothing riparian border

Companion Plants

Salvia Iris Sedum HostaFerns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Coral Bark Willow questions

What zones can Coral Bark Willow grow in?

Coral Bark Willow is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Coral Bark Willow deer resistant?

Yes — Coral Bark Willow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Coral Bark Willow bloom?

Coral Bark Willow typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Coral Bark Willow need full sun?

Coral Bark Willow does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.