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Description
Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra, commonly known as Pacific willow or shiny willow, is a deciduous shrub native to North America. It belongs to the willow family, Salicaceae, and is a subspecies of Salix lucida. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall, but typically reaches 10 to 15 feet in height. It has a spread of 8 to 15 feet and a moderate growth rate. The leaves are green, glossy, and narrow. The plant produces small, yellow flowers in the spring, followed by long, narrow seed capsules that ripen in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra has a slender, upright growth habit with smooth, gray bark. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring 2 to 4 inches in length and 0.2 to 0.4 inches in width. They are green and glossy on top, with a lighter green underside. The flowers are small and yellow, appearing in clusters in the spring. The plant produces long, narrow seed capsules that ripen in the summer and release small, cottony seeds.
Care Guide
Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra thrives in moist, well-draining soil and full to partial sunlight. It prefers acidic to neutral soil and can tolerate wet conditions. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist. Fertilizer can be added in the spring to encourage growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects can infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew, rust, and canker are common diseases that affect the plant. To prevent pest and disease problems, keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water and nutrients.
Habitat
Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra is native to North America and can be found growing in wetlands, along streams and rivers, and in other moist habitats. It is often used for erosion control and is also planted as an ornamental shrub in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra deer-resistant?
A: No, the plant is not deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra?
A: Fertilizer can be added in the spring to encourage growth.
Q: Can Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra tolerate wet conditions?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate wet conditions.
Q: What is the growth rate of Salix Lucida Subsp. Lasiandra?
A: The plant has a moderate growth rate.
Related Plants
- Salix Babylonica
- Salix Caprea
- Salix Nigra
- Salix Purpurea
References
- USDA Plants Database: Salix lucida Muhl. subsp. lasiandra (Benth.) A.E. Murray
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Salix lucida subsp. lasiandra
- Pacific Northwest Native Plants: Salix lucida ssp. lasiandra
