Salix purpurea 'Nancy Saunders'

Salix is the botanical name for Willow. Willows are woody plants that range in size from enormous weeping willows to small, creeping groundcovers. Almost all willows are easy to grow in moderate to wet soils in full sun. They grow naturally along waterways and make excellent candidates for erosion control or bank stabilization. Cut stems are extremely versatile: use them for cut flower arrangements, hedges, living structures, woven fences, or basket making.

Willows are, unfortunately, prone to a large number of pests and diseases and are not generally long lived, but cuttings root extremely easily, guaranteeing a fresh supply.

‘Nancy Saunders’, or purple willow, is an small, elegant variety with deep red stems and blue-green leaves. Grey catkins are small but lovely. Prune just after flowering in spring to maintain a smaller size and a nice supply of straight branches.

Zones: 4 to 8

Family: Salicaceae

Type: Deciduous Shrub

Height: 6 to 12 feet naturally; 4 to 5 feet when coppiced

Spread:

Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade

Soil Condition: Medium to Wet

Bloom Time: March to April