The Dragon’s Claw Willow (Salix babylonica ‘Crispa’ or Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’) is a distinctive tree known for its uniquely contorted branches, offering year-round visual appeal. Its unusual, sculptural form makes it a popular choice for landscapes.
Distinctive Features
The Dragon’s Claw Willow’s most striking feature is its spirally twisted branches, especially prominent in winter after leaf fall. These branches curl and arch, resembling gnarled dragon talons, hence the name. The bark is often a deep tan-gray, accentuating its sculptural form.
This deciduous tree grows 20 to 40 feet tall with a 15 to 30-foot spread, forming a rounded or irregular shape. Its narrow, lance-shaped leaves are bright green, often slightly curled, enhancing the twisted appearance. In autumn, foliage turns golden-yellow before the bare, contorted branches become the focal point. Small yellow catkins appear in spring, attracting pollinators.
Planting and Care
Site Selection
Site selection is important for the Dragon’s Claw Willow’s long-term health. As it grows large, ensure ample space for its mature height and spread. Avoid planting too close to structures, sidewalks, or underground pipes due to its aggressive, shallow root system. The best time to plant is early spring or autumn when temperatures are mild and soil is moist.
Soil Requirements
Dragon’s Claw Willow adapts to various soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. It thrives in moist, well-drained conditions and tolerates wet environments, making it suitable for areas with occasional flooding. Good drainage prevents root rot; amending heavy clay soils with organic matter improves aeration. The tree tolerates a soil pH range from 4.5 to 8.0.
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, especially during the first year. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the top few inches of soil to dry between sessions. During the growing season, watering once or twice a week is sufficient; in winter, once a week is usually enough unless very dry. Misting leaves can also be beneficial.
Light
This willow performs best in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. While it tolerates partial shade, brighter conditions optimize its vigor and growth. Full sunlight helps the tree achieve its full potential, though some shade may be tolerated in hotter climates.
Pruning Techniques
Pruning maintains the Dragon’s Claw Willow’s shape, health, and contorted form. The best time for significant pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve air circulation and reduce disease risk. Thinning dense areas and removing competing branches helps maintain a balanced, aesthetically pleasing shape.
Fertilization
Though generally low-maintenance, a balanced fertilizer promotes optimal growth and health. In early spring, before new growth, use a slow-release fertilizer. Fertilizers with higher nitrogen, like a 20-10-10 ratio, promote leafy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of structural integrity.
Ornamental Uses
The Dragon’s Claw Willow is valued for its unique ornamental qualities and landscape versatility. Its striking twisted branches make it an excellent specimen tree and garden focal point. The tree’s contorted silhouette creates strong winter interest, providing visual appeal when other plants are dormant. It is particularly effective near water features, where its form can be reflected.
Beyond the landscape, its curly branches are prized for floral arrangements and crafts. These “curly willow” branches add a distinctive, architectural element to bouquets and decorative displays, especially during the holiday season. The tree’s rapid growth provides a continuous supply of unique branches for cutting.
Common Considerations
The Dragon’s Claw Willow grows quickly, reaching 20 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 30 feet wide. Its vigorous growth means it can be relatively short-lived compared to other tree species, often living 20-30 years, though some sources suggest up to 40. It tolerates urban pollution and thrives in various environments.
Like other willows, it can be susceptible to pests and diseases, including aphids, leaf beetles, sawflies, and cankers. While hardy, consistent monitoring helps with early management. Its aggressive, shallow root system necessitates careful placement, as it can interfere with nearby structures, foundations, or underground utilities if planted too closely. It prefers moist conditions but tolerates dry periods and occasional standing water.