Description:

A tough, medium to large, fast growing tree that is adaptable to all soils, performs well even in standing water; a great windbreak tree when mature; tends to drop branchlets; shallow, spreading root system is good for stabilizing soils

Ornamental Features

Black Willow has dark green foliage with grayish green undersides on a tree with a round habit of growth. The glossy narrow leaves turn gold in fall. The furrowed black bark and gold branches are extremely showy and add significant winter interest.

Landscape Attributes

Black Willow is a dense multi-stemmed deciduous tree with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a high maintenance tree that will require regular care and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Messy

Black Willow is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade
• Windbreaks and Shelterbelts

Planting & Growing

Black Willow will grow to be about 60 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 60 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 2 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 80 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is quite adaptable, prefering to grow in average to wet conditions, and will even tolerate some standing water. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is native to parts of our region.