Contents
Description
Salix Cordata, commonly known as Heart-Leaved Willow, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Salicaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and is cultivated in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a rounded crown with drooping branches. The bark is gray-brown and becomes fissured with age. The leaves are heart-shaped, glossy green, and have serrated edges. The flowers are yellow and appear in early spring before the leaves. The tree produces fruit in the form of capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
The Heart-Leaved Willow has a distinct appearance with its heart-shaped leaves and drooping branches. The leaves are 2-8 cm long, glossy green, and have serrated edges. The tree produces yellow flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge, and the fruit is in the form of capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds. The bark is gray-brown and becomes fissured with age. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a rounded crown with drooping branches.
Care Guide
Heart-Leaved Willow is a low maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
- Soil: Heart-Leaved Willow prefers well-draining, fertile soil. The tree can tolerate acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ensure that the tree receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Heart-Leaved Willow is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heart-Leaved Willow is generally a healthy tree that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may affect this plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and distortion of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids
- Fungal Diseases: Heart-Leaved Willow is prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Ensure good air circulation around the tree and avoid overhead watering.
- Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can cause sunken areas on the bark and branches. Prune affected branches and avoid wounding the tree.
Habitat
Heart-Leaved Willow is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly cultivated in many parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heart-Leaved Willow a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Heart-Leaved Willow is a fast-growing tree that can increase in height by 2-3 feet per year under optimal growing conditions.
Q: Can Heart-Leaved Willow be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Heart-Leaved Willow can be grown in containers provided that the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and water the tree regularly.
Q: Can Heart-Leaved Willow be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Heart-Leaved Willow can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late autumn or winter. Ensure that the cuttings are 10-15 cm long and have several buds. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Heart-Leaved Willow require pruning?
A: Heart-Leaved Willow does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune the tree in late winter to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree.
Related Plants
- Salix Alba
- Salix Babylonica
- Salix Caprea
- Salix Discolor
- Salix Fragilis
- Salix Nigra
- Salix Purpurea
- Salix Triandra
References
- “Salix Cordata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286732.
- “Salix Cordata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/29152/Salix-cordata/Details.
- “Salix Cordata.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2479357.
