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Description
Salix Acutifolia, commonly known as the Sharp-Leaf Willow, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia and can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree has a straight trunk and a narrow crown of branches. The leaves are lance-shaped, sharp-pointed, and can grow up to 10 cm long. The flowers are small and appear in early spring before the leaves. The tree produces fruit in the form of small capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
The Sharp-Leaf Willow has a narrow crown of branches that can spread up to 8 meters wide. The trunk is straight and can grow up to 1 meter in diameter. The bark is smooth and gray-brown, becoming rough and scaly with age. The leaves are alternate, lance-shaped, and have a serrated edge. They are dark green on the upper surface and lighter green on the lower surface. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in early spring before the leaves. The fruit is a small capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
The Sharp-Leaf Willow is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. It prefers moist soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. The tree can grow in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained soil. It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sharp-Leaf Willow is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids can infest the tree and cause damage to the leaves. Scale insects can also be a problem. Powdery mildew can affect the leaves and cause them to become discolored. Leaf spot can also be a problem. To prevent these issues, keep the tree healthy and well-watered.
Habitat
The Sharp-Leaf Willow is native to Europe and western Asia. It can be found in wet areas such as riverbanks, marshes, and swamps. The tree is also commonly planted in parks and gardens for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sharp-Leaf Willow a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the Sharp-Leaf Willow is a fast-growing tree.
Q: Can the Sharp-Leaf Willow tolerate drought?
A: No, the Sharp-Leaf Willow prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly.
Q: Is the Sharp-Leaf Willow an evergreen tree?
A: No, the Sharp-Leaf Willow is a deciduous tree.
Q: What is the ornamental value of the Sharp-Leaf Willow?
A: The Sharp-Leaf Willow is commonly planted in parks and gardens for its narrow crown and lance-shaped leaves.
Related Plants
- Salix Alba (White Willow)
- Salix Babilonica (Weeping Willow)
- Salix Caprea (Goat Willow)
- Salix Nigra (Black Willow)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Pub Llc.
- USDA. (2021). Salix Acutifolia. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SAAC3
- The Morton Arboretum. (2021). Salix Acutifolia. Retrieved from https://www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/sharp-leaf-willow
