The Dragon Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’ or Salix babylonica ‘Crispa’) is an ornamental plant known for its unique visual appeal. Also called Curly Willow, Corkscrew Willow, or Dragon’s Claw Willow, its distinctive twisted branches add texture and interest to landscapes. Its ease of maintenance makes it popular for gardens and floral arrangements.
Distinctive Features
The Dragon Willow stands out due to its twisted branches, which are especially striking in winter after leaf fall, revealing their intricate silhouette. While young trees may have smoother growth, mature trunks and branches develop a gnarled, wavy pattern. Its leaves are long, slender, and bright green, often with a slight curl.
In spring, the plant produces fuzzy, yellowish-green catkins that hang from branch tips, adding interest before full foliage emerges. The branches are desirable for cut floral arrangements, providing a dynamic and textural element. The willow offers year-round aesthetic appeal, from spring catkins to exposed winter branches.
Planting and Care for Dragon Willow
Site Selection
Dragon Willows thrive in full sun, ideally 6 to 8 hours daily, though they tolerate partial shade. They prefer moist, well-drained soils and adapt to various types, including clay, loam, and sand. Due to their preference for damp conditions, they are well-suited for planting near water sources like ponds or streams. However, place them away from structures because of their aggressive, shallow root systems.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important for Dragon Willows, especially for young plants establishing root systems. While they prefer damp conditions, the soil should not be waterlogged. During the growing season, water once or twice per week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not overly saturated. Established plants may tolerate some drought, but regular irrigation during dry periods maintains their health.
Fertilizing
Dragon Willows do not require heavy fertilization if planted in nutrient-rich soil. If growth is slow or soil quality is poor, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and weaken the plant’s structure. A layer of mulch around the tree’s base helps retain soil moisture and regulate temperature, reducing the need for frequent fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning Dragon Willows helps maintain their shape, control size, and encourage new twisted branches for ornamental use. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches improves air circulation and light penetration, contributing to overall plant health. Thinning dense areas also promotes a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing form.
Common Problems
Dragon Willows are susceptible to various pests and diseases. Pests, which can cause honeydew on leaves or yellowing foliage, include:
Aphids
Willow sawflies
Borers
Scales
Caterpillars
Mealy bugs
Leaf beetles
Lace bugs
Mites
Diseases include:
Canker (appears as sunken areas on branches, serious if it spreads to the trunk)
Rust
Powdery mildew
Leaf spot
Willow scab
Environmental stressors, like water stress, make trees more vulnerable. For pests, releasing predatory insects or using horticultural oils can be effective. For diseases, promptly prune infected branches and destroy fallen diseased leaves. Adequate water and avoiding overhead watering reduce fungal infection risk.
Propagating Dragon Willow
Dragon Willows are easy to propagate, especially from cuttings. Hardwood cuttings are taken when the plant is dormant, often after leaf drop. Take a cutting just below a leaf node, about 9 inches long, with a straight cut at the bottom and a diagonal cut at the top. Rooting hormone can be used, though they often root successfully without it.
Cuttings can be rooted directly in moist soil, inserted about 4 inches deep, or placed in water. In water, new roots begin to form within two to three weeks. Consistent moisture is important for successful rooting and establishment. Once saplings develop strong root systems, usually after at least one growing season, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.