Rusty Willow Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia
ABOUT
Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia, commonly known as the grey willow, is a deciduous shrub characterized by its stout, grey, fuzzy twigs and buds. In early spring, it displays catkins, which are cylindrical flower clusters, before the leaves fully emerge. The male catkins are yellow due to the pollen, while the female catkins are greenish and slightly longer. As the seasons progress, the leaves unfurl, showcasing a bluish-green hue on the upper side and a greyish-white tone underneath due to a layer of fine hairs. The leaves are oblong to elliptical in shape, often with a somewhat wrinkled texture and a slightly toothed edge. In the autumn, the foliage may turn a pale yellow before falling off. The bark of the grey willow is typically rough and fissured, darker at the base and lighter grey towards the tips of the branches. It provides a striking contrast to the softer colored leaves and adds visual interest to the plant's overall appearance. The seeds produced by the female catkins are small, encapsulated in cottony tufts that facilitate their dispersion by the wind. Overall, the grey willow has a bushy and rounded appearance, lending a wild, rustic aesthetic to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Salicaceae
Synonyms
Rusty Willow, Rusty Sallow, Rusty-leaf Willow
Common names
Salix atrocinerea, Salix oleifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
The most common name for Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia is Rusty Willow. Rusty Willow is not generally considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of this plant. As with many plants, consumption of large quantities could potentially cause stomach discomfort or other digestive issues, but Rusty Willow does not contain significant levels of compounds known to be poisonous to humans.
To pets
Rusty Willow is the common name for Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia. This plant is not typically listed as toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. Poisoning from Rusty Willow is not common, and this plant is not known to contain any substances that are significantly toxic to pets. However, ingestion of large amounts of plant material could potentially lead to digestive upset or obstruction in pets, as is the case with the ingestion of non-food items in general.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellowish
Height
13 feet [4 meters]
Spread
13 feet [4 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Erosion Control: Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia, commonly known as Rusty Willow, has an extensive root system that helps stabilize soil and control erosion.
- Wildlife Habitat: Rusty Willow provides shelter and nesting sites for various wildlife species, including birds and insects.
- Biodiversity Support: As a native species, it contributes to local biodiversity, supporting a balanced ecosystem.
- Landscaping Use: Due to its attractive foliage and growth habit, Rusty Willow is used for ornamental purposes in landscaping.
- Soil Improvement: The leaf litter from Rusty Willow can enrich soil with organic matter as it decomposes.
- Windbreak: Its dense growth can act as a windbreak, protecting other plants and reducing wind erosion.
- Streambank Stabilization: Planted near water bodies, it can help stabilize streambanks and prevent sediment runoff.
- Water Management: Rusty Willow can help in water management by absorbing excess water in wet areas, reducing the risk of flooding.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Willow sculptures: Salix cinerea, commonly known as grey willow, is often used in creating living willow sculptures and garden features due to its flexible branches that can be easily shaped and manipulated.
- Biodiversity support: Planting grey willow can enhance local biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various insects, birds, and small mammals.
- Soil stabilization: Grey willow's extensive root system helps in stabilizing soil, preventing erosion on riverbanks and in wetland areas.
- Handicraft materials: The branches and twigs of the grey willow are used in basketry and for making other traditional crafts.
- Phytoremediation: Grey willow can be used in phytoremediation efforts to absorb heavy metals and other contaminants from the soil.
- Natural fencing: Live branches of grey willow can be woven together to create natural, living fences or screens that grow over time.
- Environmental education: Planting grey willow serves as an educational tool to teach people about native plant species and their roles in local ecosystems.
- Fodder for livestock: In some regions, the leaves and young shoots of grey willow may be used as fodder for livestock, particularly goats.
- Sustainable fuel: Grey willow can be cultivated for biomass production, providing a source of renewable energy through sustainable fuel wood.
- Agroforestry: Grey willow can be integrated into agroforestry systems, providing benefits such as windbreaks and increasing overall farm productivity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rusty Willow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rusty Willow is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Flexibility: Similar to other willow species, Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia, commonly known as Rusty Willow, is symbolically linked to flexibility because of its graceful, bending branches that can sway without breaking.
- Survival and Adaptability: Rusty Willow can thrive in various conditions, representing the human ability to adapt and survive challenging situations.
- Grief and Mourning: In historical contexts, willows have been associated with sorrow and mourning, and by extension the Rusty Willow can represent these feelings as well.
- Healing: Traditionally, willows have been used for medicinal purposes, so the Rusty Willow can symbolize healing and the alleviation of pain.
- Protection: Folklore often attributes the willow tree with protective qualities, which can be extended to the Rusty Willow, symbolizing safety and shelter.
WaterRusty willow requires consistent moisture and should be watered thoroughly, allowing water to reach deep into the soil. It is important to water the plant about once a week with 1-2 gallons per watering session, but this can vary based on local weather conditions. During hot and dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week. Ensure the plant is situated in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. In winter, reduce watering as the plant's growth slows down, but do not let the soil dry out completely.
LightRusty willow thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, although it can tolerate some afternoon shade. Avoid deep shade locations, as this could affect the plant's growth and foliage density.
TemperatureFor Rusty willow, the ideal temperature range is between 35°F and 85°F. It is quite hardy and can withstand cold temperatures down to about -20°F. In terms of heat, it can manage conditions up to 95°F, but it is essential to ensure adequate watering during hotter periods to prevent stress on the plant.
PruningPruning Rusty willow is essential to maintain its shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Prune during the dormant season in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Pruning can be done annually or as needed to shape the tree or shrub and to encourage healthy new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGrey Willow thrives in moist, well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and organic matter; pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
RepottingGrey Willow rarely needs repotting; it's often planted directly outdoors due to its size.
Humidity & MistingGrey Willow prefers high humidity but is adaptable to various outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growing due to its large size.
Outdoor
Plant in moist area with full sun or partial shade.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleSalix cinerea subsp. oleifolia, commonly known as Rusty Willow, begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist soil typically in early spring. Emerging seedlings grow rapidly, exploiting the sunlight and moist conditions to establish a root system and shoot growth. The young plant then goes through a vegetative stage, maturing into a shrub or small tree with long, slender leaves and developing the distinctive silver-grey catkins for which it is known. These catkins are crucial to its reproductive stage when they flower, attracting pollinators and, depending on the sex of the plant, producing either pollen or seeds. Following pollination, seeds are dispersed by wind or water, often landing in wet soils where they will germinate to begin the cycle anew. Throughout its life, Rusty Willow is subject to seasonal changes, entering a period of dormancy in the winter before resuming growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Grey Willow, commonly known as Salix cinerea subsp. oleifolia, is propagated primarily through hardwood cuttings. This method is favored as it is simple and usually highly successful. The best time to take hardwood cuttings is during the dormant season, typically between late fall and mid-winter. Cuttings should be about 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 centimeters) in length and contain several buds. They are then planted in moist soil, with about two-thirds of their length submerged. Roots usually develop during the following spring, and by the next season, the cuttings can often be transplanted to their permanent location.
