Salix purpurea 'Nancy Saunders' | purple willow

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