Salix alba 'Britzensis' - Coral Bark Willow

Very ornamental, particularly in winter

There are two ways to grow this plant - pruned or left to grow to its natural form. Read our page about pruning willows to find out more about coppicing and the resulting different plant form with an emphasis on colorful stems for winter interest.

The main picture was taken on Oct 21 '04 and is of a group of plugs that were planted in the spring of the same year.

Note: climatic conditions seem to have an effect on stem color. In the winter of '05-'06 the stems are not as bright. Read more.

Description: small conical tree; 6 m (20'); stems very deep red (dry to a reddish rust); cut back annually for maximum stem color

Conditions: full sun to light shade; ample water; tolerates a wide range of soil and conditions

Coldest zone: 2 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

 

Comparison of willow stems and leaves

Lists of various willow uses

Visit the USDA website to see a map of US states where Salix alba is found growing in the wild. You may then click on the individual states to see the counties where S. alba has been found.

From this we are able to deduce that the variety S. alba 'Britzensis' and the other Salix albas should grow well in probably every State in the continental US, provided you can give it the moist conditions that it requires.