Salix Sitchensis
Contents
Description
Salix Sitchensis, commonly known as Sitka willow, is a species of willow tree native to the western coast of North America. It is part of the Salicaceae family and is typically found in wetlands, along rivers, and in other areas with high moisture content.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Salix |
Appearance
The Sitka willow can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a narrow, cylindrical shape. Its bark is gray-brown and smooth, and its leaves are long and narrow with serrated edges. In the spring, the tree produces small, yellow-green flowers that are pollinated by insects.
Care Guide
The Sitka willow prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-7 and does not require much fertilization. Watering should be consistent but not excessive. Pruning can be done in the winter to maintain the tree’s shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sitka willow is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, scale insects, and willow blight. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while scale insects can be controlled with horticultural oil. Willow blight can be prevented by pruning infected branches and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Sitka willow is commonly found in wetlands, along rivers, and in other areas with high moisture content. It is native to the western coast of North America, from Alaska to California, and can also be found in parts of Asia.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the Sitka willow’s preferred soil type?
A: The Sitka willow prefers moist, well-drained soil.
Q: What pests commonly affect the Sitka willow?
A: Aphids, scale insects, and willow blight are common pests that affect the Sitka willow.
Q: When should the Sitka willow be pruned?
A: The Sitka willow should be pruned in the winter to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches.
Q: What is the Sitka willow’s hardiness zone?
A: The Sitka willow is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Related Plants
- Salix alba (White willow)
- Salix babylonica (Weeping willow)
- Salix fragilis (Crack willow)
- Salix integra (Japanese willow)
References
- “Salix sitchensis”, USDA Plants Database, https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=SASI
- “Salix sitchensis”, Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282549&isprofile=0&
- “Salix sitchensis”, Pacific Northwest Plant Database, http://pnwplants.wsu.edu/PlantDisplay.aspx?PlantID=160
