Salix nakamurana var. yezoalpina
Native to the mountain slopes of Hokkaido Japan
and well adapted to survive in the harsh mountain
terrain where it clings with claw-like roots.
As the snow melts, the 5 cm catkins contrast with
the thick mahogany coloured stems. This hardy
willow will grow where the landscape is bleak.
A very interesting plant in the garden
as it "flows" over large rocks
(see photo on the left).
Description: alpine shrub; 20
cm x 2 m spread (10" x 6'); ovate leaves; silky
in the spring; deep green in the summer, turning
to bright yellow in the fall
Conditions: full sun to part shade; exposed
site with excellent drainage and moisture-retentive soil that
is low in nitrogen
Coldest zone: 4 (find your
zone; further info on plant hardiness)
Comparison of willow
stems and leaves
Lists of various willow
uses