Corkscrew Willow
Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
300 inches
Width
210 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Short-lived (20-30 years)
Native To
China
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
An upright, deciduous tree, based on Salix matsudana, noted for its fascinating twisted and contorted branches and twigs which provide excellent winter interest. Known for its distinctive corkscrew-like branches.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Tuck roots into the hole and backfill with native soil, firming gently.
- Water thoroughly to settle soil around roots.
- Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- Prune lightly after planting to shape the tree.
Pro Tip
Plant in early spring to encourage strong root development and faster growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Prune in late winter to maintain shape
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not prune excessively during the growing season
- Never plant in waterlogged soil
- Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers that promote weak growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Corkscrew Willow questions
What zones can Corkscrew Willow grow in?
Corkscrew 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 Corkscrew Willow deer resistant?
Yes — Corkscrew Willow is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Corkscrew Willow bloom?
Corkscrew 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 Corkscrew Willow need full sun?
Corkscrew Willow does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Salix to compare
Dappled Willow
Salix integra 'Hakuro-nishiki'
Black Willow
Salix nigra
Flamingo Dappled Willow
Salix integra 'Flamingo'
Weeping Willow
Salix x sepulcralis 'Mix'
White Willow
Salix alba
Coral Bark Willow
Salix alba 'Britzensis'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Corkscrew Willow with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
