Golden Willow

General
Scientific Name: Salix alba ‘Vitellina’
Family: Salicaceae (Willow)
Hardiness: Zone 2
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree
Growth
Rate: Fast
Mature Height: >45’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No
Ornamental
Flowers: Inconspicuous
Fruit: n/a
Fall Color: Yellow

A large low-branching tree forming a broad round-topped crown with slender. Native to Europe and central Asia. Widely planted as a yard tree. Its branches shed easily throughout the season and make it somewhat of a nuisance tree in yards.

Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Water: Does well in moist soils and survives severe flooding. Often dies back during extended drought.
Soil: Performs best in deep loam soils or along stream beds and wetlands.

Bright yellow stems are characteristic of golden willow, however the plant must be cut back to encourage the yellow stems. The color only occurs on new or young growth.

Because of the fast growth willows tend to have brittle wood and are susceptible to ice and wind storms. Tend to drop branches and has been referred to as a “dirty tree” for its tendency to lose branches and leaves.

Credits: Tree Selector Website, North Dakota Tree Handbook.