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Description
Salix Exigua, commonly known as the narrowleaf willow or coyote willow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. This plant is native to the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. The narrowleaf willow is a common species found in riparian habitats, wet meadows, and streambanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
The narrowleaf willow is a slender and delicate plant that can grow up to 16 feet tall. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring 1-3 inches long and less than 0.3 inches wide. The leaves are green on the upper surface and pale or whitish beneath. The bark of young twigs is reddish-brown, while mature stems are grayish-brown and rough.
Care Guide
The narrowleaf willow is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires regular watering and fertilization. The plant prefers moist soils and can tolerate partial shade. It can grow in hardiness zones 3-10. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring and summer.
- Soil: The narrowleaf willow prefers moist, well-drained soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils.
- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The narrowleaf willow can grow in hardiness zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The narrowleaf willow is usually resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by a few common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl or yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide if necessary.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause sunken lesions on the bark and twigs. Prune the infected branches and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
The narrowleaf willow is a common species found in riparian habitats, wet meadows, and streambanks. It prefers moist soils and can tolerate partial shade. The plant is native to the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the narrowleaf willow a good plant for erosion control?
A: Yes, the narrowleaf willow is a good plant for erosion control. Its roots help stabilize the soil and prevent erosion.
Q: How fast does the narrowleaf willow grow?
A: The narrowleaf willow is a fast-growing plant that can grow up to 2 feet per year.
Q: Can the narrowleaf willow be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the narrowleaf willow can be grown in containers, but it requires frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Can the narrowleaf willow be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the narrowleaf willow can be propagated by cuttings taken in the late fall or winter.
Related Plants
- Salix Bebbiana
- Salix Fragilis
- Salix Interior
- Salix Lasiandra
References
- “Salix Exigua.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Narrowleaf Willow.” Montana Field Guide.
- “Salix Exigua.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
