GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Willow

Salix viminalis · Shrub

Hardiness
H7 Very hardy (to below −20°C)
Position
Full sun
Height × Spread
3–6 m × —
Soil
Moist but well-drained; grows in most moist soils except those that are alkaline. Tolerates clay, loam, and sand.
Flowering
March–May
Toxicity
No specific toxicity is listed by the RHS. This is not a guarantee of safety — check with a vet or the ASPCA before pets or children eat any plant.

The Gardening Year

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
🪴 Plant out
🌸 In flower
✂️ Prune

Watch out for

Anthracnose: Prune out infected shoots promptly and rake up fallen leaves to reduce the source of fungal spores.

Willow rust: Control is rarely needed as damage is minimal; remove fallen leaves in autumn to reduce resting spores.

Large willow bark aphid: Usually harmless and part of garden biodiversity; tolerate unless infestation is severe, then use natural predators.

Willow scab: Maintain good garden hygiene by removing diseased growth and debris to prevent spread.

Vine weevil: Apply nematodes to the soil in late summer or use physical barriers like sticky bands around pots.

Full guide: gardenwizz.com/plants/willow © GardenWizz — UK gardening encyclopedia