Salix integra Pendula - Dappled Willow

Salix integra 'Pendula' is a dwarf willow often grafted onto a stem that develops a weeping habit. Its long, flexible branches covered with fine green leaves create a small, extremely decorative cascade of foliage. This small tree is interesting in autumn, adorned with yellow leaves, and in winter, its bare branches, which turn more reddish, are not without appeal. This perfectly hardy, small deciduous willow can be easily grown in the ground or in a container on the terrace. Its only requirement is fertile soil that remains moist.

Salix integra, belonging to the Salicaceae family, is native to the Far East. It is found in the wild in Russia, northern China, Korea, and Japan. It is a very cold-resistant bush, preferring damp to moist locations, and is commonly found in natural wet meadows, valleys, and along waterways. It is perfectly suited to humid temperate climates, even cold ones.

Salix integra 'Pendula' is also known as the weeping pommel willow or weeping shrimp willow. It is grafted onto a stem of variable height. Ultimately, this small tree will reach between 1.25 m and 1.75 m in height. The width of its crown depends on maintenance pruning, generally reaching 1 to 1.5 m in diameter. The branches of this willow spread at the top of the trunk and then cascade down to the ground. Bright green in spring, they take on a reddish-brown hue in winter. In spring, they bear discreet flowers before the leaves, which are grouped in slender spikes. The leaves are soft, narrowly elliptical to oblong, measuring 3 to 6 cm long. Their colour is light green on the upper side, with a whitish underside. They turn yellow in autumn before falling.

Unobtrusive and infinitely graceful, Salix integra 'Pendula' is perfect for decorating contemporary terraces and small gardens. It can be planted as a solitary specimen in the centre of a small dedicated flower bed. To surround it, one might plant Japanese grass 'Naomi' or Ophiopogons for example. The variegated ground ivy will also form an elegant and luminous ground cover around its silhouette. This dwarf weeping willow, like all willows, is irreplaceable near water features and in damp soils.