Salix x 'Flame' - Flame Willow

Flame willow is grown for its ornamental qualities. Both in summer and in winter, the branches of the red form retain a bright orangey-red glow.

The numerous branches of this willow are especially striking against dark evergreens.

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.

Description: medium shrub; 4 m (13'); bright, very colourful, red-orange annual growth (red form); yellow annual growth (yellow form); many branches

Conditions: full sun to light shade; ample water to moist soil; tolerates a wide range of soil; light pruning to shape

Coldest zone: 4 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

 

The top picture was taken in October and is of a group of two year old plants that are coppiced in the late winter every year.

Comparison of willow stems and leaves

Lists of various willow uses