Willow, Dappled (Shrub Form) Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki' Height: 20 feet Spread: 10 feet
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Hardiness Zone: 3b Other Names: S.i. 'Albomaculata', Dappled Willow Description: One of the showiest of shrubs for foliage color, new growth emerges soft pink and white, literally bathing the plant with color in spring, fades to white variegation in summer; should be pruned every winter for maximum effect; tough and adaptable. Ornamental Features Willow, Dappled (Shrub Form) has attractive white-variegated green foliage with hints of pink which emerges pink in spring on a plant with a round habit of growth. The narrow leaves are highly ornamental but do not develop any appreciable fall color. The smooth bark and brick red branches add an interesting dimension to the landscape. Landscape Attributes Willow, Dappled (Shrub Form) is a multi-stemmed deciduous shrub with a more or less rounded form. It lends an extremely fine and delicate texture to the landscape composition which can make it a great accent feature on this basis alone. This shrub will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. It has no significant negative characteristics. Willow, Dappled (Shrub Form) is recommended for the following landscape applications; Planting & Growing Willow, Dappled (Shrub Form) will grow to be about 20 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 10 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 40 years or more. This shrub does best in partial shade to shade. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. This plant should be periodically fertilized throughout the active growing season with a specially-formulated acidic fertilizer. 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. Special Attributes The Dappled Willow is best if grown in afternoon shade from 12pm to 6pm, so the leaves don't burn in the hot sunlight of summer.
