Weeping Willow

(Salix babylonica)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 30 to 40 feet
Spread: 30 to 40 feet
Shape: Weeping

Narrow, green leaves form on long weeping stems which reach to the ground. Fall color is yellowish.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 6 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet to moist
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 7.3

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include specimen plant.

Planting Notes:

Transplants readily and is easy to propagate.
Plant thrives near water, but will grow about anywhere.

Care:

Maintenance needed to remove fallen twigs when planted in high traffic area.
Prune dead and damaged wood anytime of year.

Problems:

Brittle, soft wood breaks easily.
Tree litter is a nuisance in high-traffic areas.
Invasive root system may cause problems to septic tanks and water lines.
Insect problems include aphids, borers, defoliators, gall insects, Japanese beetles, lacebugs, sawflies, scale insects and spider mites.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Related species (do not resemble Weeping Willow):
SALIX GRACILISTYLA (Rosegold Pussy Willow) has showy pink tinged catkins in spring (6 to 10 feet high, 6 to 10 feet wide).
SALIX CAPREA (Goat Willow) is often confused with the true "Pussy Willow" (Salix discolor). This small tree has soft, early spring catkins (15 to 25 feet high, 12 to 15 feet wide).
SALIX PURPUREA (Purpleosier Willow) is good for wet areas, such as stabilizing creek and pond banks (8 to 10 feet high, 6 to 8 feet wide).

Comments:

Weeping Willow is a beautiful, graceful tree when placed out in the open with adequate water and lots of room to grow.
Its extensive leaf and twig drop, shallow root system, and weak wood limit its usefulness in the home landscape.

Additional Materials:

The PRUNING SERIES videotape can be ordered through your local Extension office.
The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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