Contents
Description
Salix Pyrifolia, commonly known as the Pear-leaved Willow, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. This tree is native to China and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree has a rounded crown and a short trunk, with a gray-brown bark that is smooth when young and becomes rougher as the tree ages. The leaves of Salix Pyrifolia are alternate, simple, and have a pear-like shape, with a length of 5-15 cm and a width of 3-10 cm. The flowers of this tree are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Salix Pyrifolia is a large tree with a rounded crown, short trunk, and gray-brown bark. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have a pear-like shape, with a length of 5-15 cm and a width of 3-10 cm. The upper surface of the leaf is shiny, while the lower surface is lighter in color and can be hairy. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male and female flowers on separate trees. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Salix Pyrifolia prefers to grow in moist, well-drained soil and requires regular watering. The tree can tolerate some dryness, but it should not be allowed to dry out completely. Fertilization is recommended in the spring, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. Salix Pyrifolia is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salix Pyrifolia is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, cankers, and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, it is recommended to keep the tree healthy through proper watering and fertilization, as well as pruning any dead or diseased branches.
Habitat
Salix Pyrifolia is native to China and can be found in various habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and wetlands. The tree prefers moist soil and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salix Pyrifolia be grown in containers?
A: While Salix Pyrifolia can be grown in containers, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires regular watering.
Q: What is the best time to prune Salix Pyrifolia?
A: The best time to prune Salix Pyrifolia is in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Does Salix Pyrifolia have any medicinal properties?
A: Salix Pyrifolia has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
Q: Can Salix Pyrifolia be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Salix Pyrifolia can be propagated from cuttings taken in the late summer or early fall.
Related Plants
- Salix Babylonica
- Salix Matsudana
- Salix Alba
- Salix Purpurea
References
- Flora of China. (http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200005426)
- RHS. (https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26655/Salix-pyrifolia/Details)
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287871&isprofile=0&letter=s)
