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Salix Fragilis

Salix Fragilis

Description

Salix Fragilis, commonly known as crack willow, is a deciduous tree native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It belongs to the family Salicaceae and can grow up to 20 meters in height. The tree is known for its brittle branches that easily snap off in the wind, giving it its common name. It has lance-shaped leaves that are light green in color, turning yellow in the autumn. The flowers are catkins that appear in the spring, and the fruit is a capsule filled with small seeds.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Spermatophyta
Class Angiospermae
Order Malpighiales
Family Salicaceae
Genus Salix

Appearance

The Salix Fragilis is a medium to large-sized tree with a broad crown. Its branches are slender and brittle, often breaking off in the wind. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and becomes deeply fissured as the tree ages. The leaves are lance-shaped, 10-15 cm long, and light green in color. In the autumn, the leaves turn yellow before falling off. The flowers of the tree are catkins that appear in the spring, before the leaves emerge. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.

Care Guide

Salix Fragilis is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun, although it can tolerate some shade. The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, and should be fertilized annually with a balanced fertilizer. The tree is not picky about soil type, but it should be well-draining. Salix Fragilis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salix Fragilis is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, sawflies, and powdery mildew. Aphids and sawflies can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide. The tree is also susceptible to cankers, which are caused by bacteria or fungi and can be treated with pruning or a fungicide. Overall, Salix Fragilis is a relatively disease-resistant tree.

Habitat

Salix Fragilis is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa and is commonly found in wetland areas, along riverbanks, and in other areas with moist soil. The tree is also commonly planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Salix Fragilis a fast-growing tree?

A: Yes, Salix Fragilis is a fast-growing tree and can grow up to 1.5 meters per year.

Q: Can Salix Fragilis tolerate flooding?

A: Yes, Salix Fragilis is tolerant of flooding and can be planted in areas with high water tables.

Q: How often should Salix Fragilis be pruned?

A: Salix Fragilis should be pruned annually to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.

Q: Can Salix Fragilis be planted in a container?

A: While Salix Fragilis can be grown in a container, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and may become root-bound.

Related Plants

  • Salix Alba (White Willow)
  • Salix Babylonica (Weeping Willow)
  • Salix Caprea (Goat Willow)
  • Salix Cinerea (Grey Willow)

References

  • “Salix Fragilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281046&isprofile=0. Accessed 9 May 2021.
  • “Salix Fragilis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/57242/Salix-fragilis/Details. Accessed 9 May 2021.
  • “Salix Fragilis – Plant Finder.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/181204/. Accessed 9 May 2021.

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