Contents
Description
Salix Sepulcralis Chrysocoma, commonly known as the Golden Weeping Willow, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is a hybrid species between Salix alba and Salix babylonica. The tree is known for its beautiful golden-yellow leaves and weeping habit, making it a popular choice for landscaping and ornamental purposes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
The Golden Weeping Willow can grow up to 50 feet tall and 50 feet wide, with a weeping habit that creates a graceful and elegant silhouette. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring 2-4 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are a bright golden-yellow color in the spring and summer, turning a paler yellow in the fall. The bark is gray-brown and tends to peel in thin strips. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring that are followed by small, hairy capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
The Golden Weeping Willow requires moderate care to thrive.
Water
The tree prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
The tree benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied in the early spring before new growth begins.
Soil
The Golden Weeping Willow grows best in moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
Sunlight
The tree prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The Golden Weeping Willow is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Golden Weeping Willow is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Aphids
- Scale insects
- Caterpillars
Diseases
- Crown gall
- Canker
- Powdery mildew
Habitat
The Golden Weeping Willow is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been widely cultivated throughout the world for ornamental purposes. It prefers moist habitats, such as riverbanks, lakeshores, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Golden Weeping Willow a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the Golden Weeping Willow is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 6 feet per year under ideal conditions.
Q: Can the Golden Weeping Willow tolerate flooding?
A: Yes, the Golden Weeping Willow is a good choice for wet areas and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Q: Does the Golden Weeping Willow require pruning?
A: Yes, the tree should be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
Q: Can the Golden Weeping Willow be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than if grown in the ground.
Related Plants
- Salix alba
- Salix babylonica
- Salix caprea
- Salix fragilis
References
- “Salix sepulcralis ‘Chrysocoma’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 3 May 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Golden Weeping Willow Tree Care and Growing Guide.” The Spruce. Accessed 3 May 2021. www.thespruce.com/golden-weeping-willow-tree-care-3269645.
- “Salix sepulcralis.” Plant Finder. Accessed 3 May 2021. www.monrovia.com.
