Golden Weeping Willow Salix alba 'Tristis' ambig.
ABOUT
Salix alba 'Tristis', commonly known as the Weeping Willow, is a captivating deciduous tree known for its graceful appearance. It features long, slender branches that cascade downwards, creating a sweeping, fountain-like effect that is particularly striking. The leaves are narrow and elongated, with a fine, serrated edge that adds to the delicate feel of the foliage. They are usually a bright, fresh green that turns golden yellow before falling in the autumn. The Weeping Willow has a bark that is typically rough and deeply furrowed, providing an interesting texture that contrasts with the soft foliage. In the spring, the tree displays modest yellowish or greenish flowers, which give way to small, inconspicuous fruits later in the season. Overall, the Weeping Willow stands out in any landscape for its distinctive pendulous branches and light, airy canopy, making it an elegant addition to areas near water or in open, sunny sites where its full beauty can be appreciated.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Salicaceae
Synonyms
Weeping Willow, Golden Weeping Willow, Niobe Weeping Willow
Common names
Salix babylonica var. tristis, Salix alba var. tristis, Salix alba 'Tristis'.
- Toxicity
To humans
Salix alba 'Tristis', commonly known as the weeping willow, is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, there may be individual sensitivities or allergic reactions to it. Ingesting parts of the weeping willow, particularly in large quantities, might be harmful due to the presence of salicin, a compound similar to aspirin. This could potentially lead to salicylate toxicity, the symptoms of which include nausea, vomiting, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or diarrhea. If symptoms occur or a significant amount is ingested, medical advice should be sought.
To pets
The weeping willow, commonly known as Salix alba 'Tristis', is considered to have a low level of toxicity to pets. The primary concern is the presence of salicylates in the plant, which can lead to adverse effects in some animals, particularly cats and dogs if ingested. Symptoms of salicylate toxicity in pets could include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to more serious complications such as gastrointestinal upset, bleeding disorders, or kidney damage. If you suspect your pet has ingested weeping willow, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
50 feet (15 meters)
Spread
40 feet (12 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Europe
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: The weeping willow, Salix alba 'Tristis', is admired for its graceful, drooping form and yellow twigs, which add visual interest to landscapes.
- Shade Provider: Mature trees have a broad canopy that offers an extensive area of shade, cooling the environment and providing shelter.
- Erosion Control: The extensive root system helps to stabilize soil and control erosion, particularly along riverbanks and slopes.
- Wildlife Habitat: Supports biodiversity by providing shelter and nesting sites for birds, as well as being a food source for caterpillars and other insects.
- Windbreak: Its dense foliage and sturdy structure can serve as a windbreak, protecting nearby areas from strong winds.
- Seasonal Interest: Features catkins in the spring, adding texture and interest to the spring garden.
- Rapid Growth: Has a fast growth rate that allows for quick establishment and faster landscape effects compared to slower-growing tree species.
- Water Management: Can tolerate wet conditions, making it useful for planting in areas with waterlogged soil or for managing excess water runoff.
- Soil Improvement: Leaves that fall and decompose enrich the soil with organic matter, enhancing soil quality over time.
- Medical Properties
- Analgesic: Salix alba bark extract contains salicin, a compound that may help reduce pain.
- Anti-inflammatory: The salicin in Salix alba may also have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially useful in conditions such as arthritis.
- Antipyretic: The plant has been traditionally used to reduce fever, due to its salicin content, which can be converted into salicylic acid in the body.
- Astringent: Tannins present in the bark may have astringent effects, which could help in treating skin conditions and diarrhea.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Weeping willow twigs can be used for basket weaving due to their flexibility and strength.
- Wood from the weeping willow can be crafted into cricket bats, favored for its tough yet lightweight nature.
- The fibrous bark of weeping willow can be processed to create a natural and biodegradable string or rope.
- Young stems of weeping willow can be used as natural plant stakes in the garden, providing support for other plants.
- Weeping willow branches can be used in floral arrangements or as a base for creating living sculptures in garden art installations.
- Due to its quick growth and dense foliage, the weeping willow can be used as a natural windbreak or sound barrier in landscapes.
- The extensive root system of weeping willows can help stabilize soil on river banks and prevent erosion.
- Leaves from the weeping willow can serve as a natural mulch, gradually decomposing and enriching the soil with nutrients.
- Weeping willow wood can be used as a fuel for fires and is known for burning hot with a pleasant aroma.
- Live weeping willow rods can be planted and manipulated into living structures like tunnels, arbors, or playhouses for children.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
The Weeping Willow is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Weeping Willow is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Grief and mourning: Salix alba 'Tristis', commonly known as the Weeping Willow, is often associated with sadness due to its drooping branches which give the appearance of weeping.
- Flexibility and adaptability: As willow branches are flexible and can bend without breaking, the Weeping Willow represents the ability to adapt to life's circumstances without losing strength.
- Healing: Historically, willow bark has been used for its medicinal properties, making the Weeping Willow symbolize healing and the alleviation of pain.
- Release: The tranquil appearance of the Weeping Willow by water suggests letting go of past hurts and emotional release.
- Protection: Willows have been considered protective trees, with the belief that their presence wards off malevolent spirits or natural disasters.
- Love and loss: Due to its melancholic look, the Weeping Willow is also emblematic of the bittersweet nature of love that has been lost or unrequited.
- Water
The Weeping Willow should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to be moist but not soggy. Generally, watering once a week with about 1.5 to 2 gallons per session is sufficient. During hot and dry spells, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. It's crucial not to overwater as Weeping Willows are prone to root rot, so adjust according to rainfall and soil drainage. A good rule of thumb is to check the soil moisture by feeling the soil a few inches down; if it's dry, it's time to water.
- Light
Weeping Willows thrive best in full sun conditions, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They should be planted in a spot where they can get unfiltered, direct sunlight to ensure vigorous growth and health.
- Temperature
Weeping Willows are hardy and can tolerate a wide temperature range; however, they grow best when the average temperature is between 50°F and 80°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as over 100°F, but the ideal growing conditions are within that moderate range to avoid stress to the tree.
- Pruning
Pruning a Weeping Willow helps maintain its shape, encourage new growth, and prevent disease by removing dead or diseased branches. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune annually to remove any problematic branches and to shape the tree.
- Cleaning
Not needed
- Soil
For the Golden Weeping Willow, a loamy, well-drained soil with consistent moisture is ideal. The best soil mix should be rich in organic matter. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
- Repotting
Golden Weeping Willows are typically not repotted as they are large trees meant for outdoor planting. They should be planted in a permanent location where they can grow undisturbed.
- Humidity & Misting
Golden Weeping Willow thrives in average outdoor humidity levels; they do not require specific humidity adjustments when planted in their natural outdoor environment.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Not suitable for indoor growth due to size.
Outdoor
Plant in moist, well-draining soil with full sun.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of Salix alba 'Tristis', commonly known as Golden Weeping Willow, begins with seed germination, facilitated by the moist soil conditions it prefers. Germinating seeds develop into young seedlings, which grow rapidly given adequate water and sunlight. The tree enters a vegetative stage, characterized by the elongation of its distinctive drooping branches and the development of long, narrow leaves. Reproductive maturity is reached within a few years, at which point the tree produces flowers called 'catkins' that, after pollination, develop into tiny, capsule-like fruits, releasing numerous minute seeds. These seeds are dispersed by wind or water, propagating the next generation. The Golden Weeping Willow can live many years, but is prone to damage from high winds and can also suffer from various diseases and pests throughout its life before eventually succumbing to old age or environmental stressors.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Early Spring
Salix alba 'Tristis', commonly known as the Golden Weeping Willow, is often propagated by hardwood cuttings, a method that is especially popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness. In late fall or winter, when the tree is dormant, cuttings about 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 centimeters) long and about half an inch (1.25 centimeters) in diameter are taken from healthy branches. The lower end of the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then planted directly into moist soil. These cuttings should be placed so that two-thirds of their length is underground, with the remaining third above ground to allow for new growth. The cuttings generally root by the following spring, developing into new trees that are genetically identical to the parent plant.