Salix x erythroflexuosa 'Erythroflexuosa'

tree

Red Twisted Willow

Salix x erythroflexuosa 'Erythroflexuosa'

The Story

Plant Bio

Salix species are fast-growing, moisture-loving woody plants known for their vigorous root systems and high adaptability to wet soils. These deciduous trees and shrubs often colonize riparian zones, producing slender, flexible branches and narrow, alternate leaves.

'Erythroflexuosa' is distinguished by its heavily contorted, spiraling branches and young shoots that display a striking yellow-orange to reddish-orange color. The narrow, light green leaves often carry a gentle twist, turning yellow in the fall before dropping to reveal the sculptural winter silhouette.

Uses & Benefits:

Grown for its highly decorative, twisted branches and vibrant orange-red young stems that provide exceptional winter interest.

Excellent for stabilizing wet soils on slopes and providing flexible, colorful stems for floral crafts.

Provides early spring nectar for bees and butterflies, and serves as a nesting site for birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

354"

Width

354"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Short-lived

Native To

Asia (hybrid origin)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with moist, fertile soil, ensuring it is far from underground pipes and foundations.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and of equal depth, then place the plant so the soil flare is level with the ground.
Backfill with native soil, tamp down gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the roots.
Apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain moisture, keeping the mulch a few inches away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant this willow at least 50 feet away from sewer lines, septic fields, and foundations to prevent its aggressive, water-seeking root system from causing structural damage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells to maintain consistently moist soil conditions.
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
Use the colorful, contorted stems in floral arrangements and crafts.

Don't

Do not plant near sewer lines, water pipes, septic systems, or home foundations.
Do not prune heavily into thick, old wood, as this ruins the contorted branching aesthetic.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, especially during the first few growing seasons.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Propagate
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen plantingRain gardensWet soils and pond edgesWinter interest gardens

Companion Plants

Cornus sericea Iris sibirica Calamagrostis acutiflora

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Red Twisted Willow questions

What zones can Red Twisted Willow grow in?

Red Twisted Willow is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Red Twisted Willow deer resistant?

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

When does Red Twisted Willow bloom?

Red Twisted Willow typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Red Twisted Willow need full sun?

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