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Description
Salix Caprea, commonly known as Goat Willow or Pussy Willow, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Salicaceae family and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The tree has a broad, spreading crown with drooping branches and smooth grayish-brown bark. Its leaves are oval-shaped, light green, and measure up to 12 centimeters long. During spring, Salix Caprea produces fragrant catkins that attract bees and butterflies. The tree’s seeds are small and covered in silky hairs, resembling a furry caterpillar.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Salix Caprea has a unique appearance that makes it easily recognizable. The tree has a round or oval-shaped crown with drooping branches that give it a graceful appearance. Its leaves are light green and oval-shaped, measuring up to 12 centimeters long. The tree produces fragrant catkins in the spring, which can be either male or female. The male catkins are long and yellow, while the female catkins are shorter and green. The tree’s seeds are small and covered in silky hairs, giving them a furry appearance.
Care Guide
Salix Caprea is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The tree needs regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Salix Caprea does not require much fertilization. However, you can add some organic fertilizer to the soil in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Salix Caprea grows best in full sun or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salix Caprea is generally not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common ones:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause leaf curling and distortion. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Sawflies: These insects can defoliate the tree. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Willow scab: This fungal disease causes black spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. Use fungicides to control it.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause dieback and cankers on the branches. Prune affected branches and avoid wounding the tree.
Habitat
Salix Caprea is native to Europe and Asia and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hedgerows, and riverbanks. The tree prefers moist soil and can withstand flooding. It is commonly used in ornamental gardens and as a windbreak or screen.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Salix Caprea a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Salix Caprea is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 60 centimeters per year.
Q: Can Salix Caprea be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Salix Caprea can be grown in a container if it is pruned regularly and provided with adequate water and nutrients.
Q: When is the best time to prune Salix Caprea?
A: The best time to prune Salix Caprea is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Is Salix Caprea a good tree for wildlife?
A: Yes, Salix Caprea is a great tree for wildlife as its catkins attract bees and butterflies, and its seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.
Related Plants
- Salix Alba (White Willow)
- Salix Fragilis (Crack Willow)
- Salix Nigra (Black Willow)
- Salix Purpurea (Purple Osier)
References
- “Salix caprea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c119>.
- “Salix caprea.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 14 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17633/Salix-caprea/Details>.
- “Salix caprea.” The Tree Center. Accessed 14 May 2021. <https://www.thetreecenter.com/goat-willow/>.
