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Description
Salix Integra, also known as the Hakuro Nishiki or Dappled Willow, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is native to Japan and China and can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The plant is known for its striking foliage, which features variegated leaves with pink, white, and green colors.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Salix Integra is a beautiful shrub with variegated leaves that feature pink, white, and green colors. The leaves are around 4 inches long and 2 inches wide, with a slightly serrated edge. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring. The bark of the Salix Integra is brownish-gray and has a smooth texture.
Care Guide
To care for Salix Integra, you should plant it in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH level. You should water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Salix Integra is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salix Integra is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Aphids and spider mites can infest the plant and cause damage to the leaves. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust can also affect the plant. To prevent these problems, you should keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding. If you notice any signs of pests or diseases, you should treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Salix Integra is native to Japan and China and is commonly found in wetland areas, such as riverbanks and marshes. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salix Integra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salix Integra can be grown in containers, but you should make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and provide adequate drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Salix Integra?
A: You should fertilize Salix Integra once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to prune Salix Integra?
A: The best time to prune Salix Integra is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: How do I propagate Salix Integra?
A: Salix Integra can be propagated through hardwood cuttings taken in the late fall or early winter.
Related Plants
- Salix Alba
- Salix Babylonica
- Salix Caprea
- Salix Fragilis
References
- “Salix Integra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d103.
- “Salix Integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’.” Plant Care Today. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/salix-integra-hakuro-nishiki.html.
- “Dappled Willow (Salix Integra).” Garden Design for Living. Accessed May 13, 2021. https://gardendesignforliving.com/dappled-willow-salix-integra/.
