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Grayleaf willow

Salix glauca · Salicaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around grayleaf willow and prepare for winter.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
Spring (grey-silver catkins)
Adult size
1.5 to 2.5 m in height
Growth
Rapid
Hardiness
Very hardy (zones 1-3)
Origin
Arctic and subarctic regions of Eurasia
Soil type
Well-drained, light, acidic to neutral soils
Exposure
Full sun to partial shade

Care

Exposure

Glaucous willow thrives in full sun, a condition that enhances its characteristic glaucous tint. It does tolerate partial shade, though growth may be slightly less vigorous there. Avoid overly shaded locations, as these reduce spring flowering.

Watering

Water regularly during the growing season, especially the first two years after planting. This shrub appreciates moist but well-drained soil; avoid waterlogging. Once established, it tolerates drought better than many other willows.

Soil

Choose light, well-drained soil, preferably acidic to neutral. Glaucous willow adapts to poor, even rocky soils, making it ideal for mountain gardens or difficult terrain. Organic matter improves its initial establishment.

Pruning and cutting

Pruning isn't essential, but you can prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape. Basal shoots can be removed if you want to form a small tree. Severe pruning will reduce catkin production.

Fertilizer

No fertilizer is needed for glaucous willow in decent soil. In very poor soil, a light application of compost or balanced fertilizer in spring can boost initial growth, but keep applications moderate.

Diseases and pests

Glaucous willow is generally robust. Like all willows, it may occasionally be affected by fungi or insects specific to Salicaceae, but such problems remain rare. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Did you know?

Glaucous willow is one of the northernmost species in the Salix genus: it colonizes arctic tundra up to extreme altitudes, often in dwarf form. Its grey-blue foliage is of major ecological importance for arctic reindeer and musk ox populations, which feed on it abundantly during short boreal summers.

Where to buy it

Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.