The Curly Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’) is an ornamental tree cherished for its uniquely twisted branches and foliage. This fast-growing deciduous tree adds visual interest to any landscape, especially in winter when its contorted form is most visible. Its distinctive appearance makes it a focal point in gardens and a favored element in floral arrangements. This guide covers how to grow and maintain this captivating tree.
Understanding Curly Willows
Curly Willows are easily identified by their signature spiraling branches and stems, which become more pronounced with age. Their leaves are also slightly curled rather than completely flat. These trees grow rapidly, often adding 2-3 feet in height each year, reaching a mature size of 20-40 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. While primarily grown for their ornamental twisted branches, they also produce fuzzy yellow-green catkins in spring. They are valuable as specimen trees or for winter interest.
Planting and Establishing Curly Willows
Selecting an appropriate planting site is important for the Curly Willow’s success. This tree thrives in full sun (at least six hours daily) but can tolerate some partial shade. It adapts to various soil types, including clay, loam, or sand, but prefers well-draining, moist conditions. Due to its shallow root system, plant Curly Willows a safe distance from structures, driveways, sidewalks, and underground utility lines to prevent potential damage.
The best time to plant is during spring or summer, avoiding extreme temperatures. Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and two to three times as wide. Place the tree in the center, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil and provide initial moisture. Consistently moist soil is particularly important during its first year to establish a strong root system.
Ongoing Care Requirements
Curly Willows require consistent moisture, especially when young and during dry periods, to thrive. Regular, deep watering is beneficial, particularly if the tree is not located near a natural water source.
Fertilization is generally not a frequent requirement for established Curly Willows. Average-quality soil typically provides sufficient nutrients, but if growth appears weak, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (such as a 10-10-10 ratio) can be applied in spring. If the tree is near a fertilized lawn, it may already receive adequate nutrients.
Applying a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. It is important to keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent pest attraction.
Pruning for Health and Shape
Pruning maintains Curly Willow health, enhances their distinctive twisted form, and manages size. It removes dead, damaged, or crossing branches, improving air circulation and reducing disease risk. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant and before new growth emerges. This allows a clear view of the branch structure and minimizes stress.
Focus on removing weak, diseased, or rubbing branches. Thinning crowded areas promotes better light penetration and airflow, contributing to a healthier tree. For shaping, consider the natural contorted habit of the branches. Curly Willows respond well to pruning, and even significant cuts result in vigorous new growth. Coppicing or pollarding are options for aggressive size management, where the tree is cut back severely to encourage new, twisted stems; this practice needs regular maintenance once started.
Addressing Common Issues
Curly Willows, while generally resilient, can encounter certain issues. Pests such as aphids, willow leaf beetles, and borers may affect the tree. Aphids typically gather on tender new growth, causing leaves to yellow or distort, though healthy trees usually tolerate light infestations. Willow leaf beetles skeletonize leaves, and borers damage stems. Management often involves encouraging natural predators or, for severe infestations, using insecticidal soap or a strong water spray.
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew, willow scab, and black canker can also occur. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves. Willow scab and black canker can cause leaf blight, stem blackening, and dieback, especially during wet weather. Good air circulation through proper pruning helps prevent fungal issues. Promptly remove infected branches to limit disease spread.
Environmental factors like poor drainage can lead to root rot, while drought stress causes leaves to yellow or branches to become brittle. Providing consistent moisture and well-draining soil helps prevent these problems. Curly Willows generally have a shorter lifespan compared to other tree species, typically living 15-20 years, though some may last up to 30 years under ideal conditions.