Salix Integra Hakuro
Contents
Description
Salix Integra Hakuro, commonly known as Hakuro Nishiki Willow or Dappled Japanese Willow, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is native to Japan, Korea, and China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Hakuro Nishiki Willow has variegated green, white, and pink leaves that are oval-shaped and about 2-4 inches long. The leaves turn yellow in the fall before dropping. It has a rounded shape and can grow up to 6-10 feet tall and wide. In early spring, the shrub produces small, yellowish-green flowers that are not very showy. The bark is grayish-brown and smooth.
Care Guide
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before new growth appears.
Soil: Hakuro Nishiki Willow prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost before planting.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may have less vibrant foliage.
Hardiness Zones: Hakuro Nishiki Willow is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hakuro Nishiki Willow is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Treat pests and diseases promptly with insecticidal soap or fungicides.
Habitat
Hakuro Nishiki Willow is native to Japan, Korea, and China and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It grows well in temperate climates and is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hakuro Nishiki Willow be pruned?
A: Yes, the shrub can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How fast does Hakuro Nishiki Willow grow?
A: The shrub grows at a moderate rate, about 12-18 inches per year.
Q: Is Hakuro Nishiki Willow deer-resistant?
A: No, the shrub is not deer-resistant and may be damaged by browsing deer.
Q: Can Hakuro Nishiki Willow be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the shrub can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
- Salix integra
- Salix purpurea
- Salix caprea
- Salix cinerea
References
- “Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h680.
- “Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’.” Plant Information Online, www.plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1423886.
- “Dappled Japanese Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/salix-integra-hakuro-nishiki-dappled-japanese-willow.
