Salix Bonplandiana
Contents
Description
Salix Bonplandiana is a plant species that is part of the Salicaceae family. It is commonly known as Bonpland willow or Sauco blanco, and it is native to South America. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit and can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a straight trunk with a gray-brown bark that is smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured as it ages. The leaves are lanceolate, about 10 cm long and 2 cm wide, and have a glossy green upper surface and a lighter underside. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in catkins before the leaves in spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Salix Bonplandiana is a deciduous plant that sheds its leaves in winter. The leaves are lanceolate, about 10 cm long and 2 cm wide, and have a glossy green upper surface and a lighter underside. The plant’s bark is gray-brown and smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured as it ages. The flowers are small, yellow-green, and appear in catkins before the leaves in spring. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit and can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Care Guide
Salix Bonplandiana requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Fertilization is recommended in the spring, using a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is hardy in zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salix Bonplandiana is susceptible to aphids, scales, and spider mites. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as rust and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides or fungicides can help prevent and control these issues.
Habitat
Salix Bonplandiana is native to South America, where it is found in wetlands, riparian zones, and other moist environments. It can grow in a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, and is adapted to seasonal flooding and other changes in water levels.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salix Bonplandiana a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Salix Bonplandiana can be used in landscaping for its attractive foliage and growth habit.
Q: Can Salix Bonplandiana grow in containers?
A: Yes, Salix Bonplandiana can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should Salix Bonplandiana be pruned?
A: Salix Bonplandiana should be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and size. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Is Salix Bonplandiana invasive?
A: Salix Bonplandiana is not considered invasive, but it can spread by seed and may require maintenance to prevent unwanted growth.
Related Plants
- Salix alba
- Salix caprea
- Salix fragilis
- Salix nigra
References
- “Salix bonplandiana,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 14, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n550.
- “Salix bonplandiana Kunth,” Plants of the World Online, accessed September 14, 2021, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30069132-2.
