Deciduous Tree – Braided Purple Willow

Braided Purple Willow 

Botanical name: salix purpurea 

Beginner friendly?: yes 

Average size at maturity: 5-10 ft in height with a spread of 4-6 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 3-7

Growth rate: grows 2-3 ft per year 

Foliage color: green/blue 

Flower color: yellow

Bloom time:  spring 

Pruning instructions: prune in the late winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge for the season 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall and winter months 

Landscape use: focal point, shade tree, container tree, pollinator garden 

Special features: cold hardy, pet friendly 

Light needs: 4 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged or soggy 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow release balanced fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil: sand, loam 

Companion plants: junipers, oakleaf hydrangea, hosta, japanese iris 

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: potentially invasive