My garden, alive in my pocket.
Track my garden
🌿

Net-veined willow

Salix reticulata · Salicaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

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

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
Spring (April-May)
Adult size
0.3 to 0.6 m in height × 0.5 to 1 m in width
Growth
Slow
Hardiness
Very hardy (-35 °C and below)
Origin
Alpine and subarctic zones of Europe and Asia
Soil type
Acidic to neutral, well-draining, humus-rich

Care

Exposure and climate

Reticulate willow thrives in full sun or partial shade. This small mountain species prefers cold, well-ventilated areas, ideal for alpine gardens or rock gardens. Avoid overly hot or confined locations.

Soil preparation

Plant this species in acidic to slightly neutral substrate, enriched with organic matter (peat, compost). Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Improve heavy soils with sand and organic matter.

Watering

Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during establishment. Water regularly during dry periods, particularly in summer. In humid or cold climates, reduce frequency to prevent rot.

Pruning and maintenance

Little intervention needed. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter. Maintain the natural, compact form of the shrub without necessarily pruning it every year.

Feeding

This mountain shrub tolerates poor soils well. An application of decomposed compost in autumn is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen fertilizer, which would promote unsuitable growth.

Health prevention

Generally very robust in mountain conditions. Monitor excess moisture that favors fungal diseases. Ensure good air circulation and remove debris to limit the risk of fungal infections.

Did you know?

Reticulate willow is an emblematic inhabitant of bogs and alpine heights in Northern Europe. Its name 'reticulate' refers to the distinctive network of veins on its leaves. It is one of the smallest willow species, sometimes called 'miniature,' ideal for collectors of small shrubs or rock gardens.

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.

Add this plant to my garden →

Plants from the same family

Browse all plants →

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