Dappled Willow – Salix Integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’

Dappled Willow – Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’

Overview: Dappled Willow, scientifically known as Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’, is a striking deciduous shrub noted for its unique variegated foliage. The leaves exhibit a beautiful mix of pink, white, and green, creating a dappled effect that adds visual interest to any landscape. This versatile and fast-growing shrub is ideal for adding color and texture to gardens and is often used in hedges, borders, and as a specimen plant.

Typical Uses:

Dappled Willow serves various purposes in garden and landscape design:

• As a focal point in garden beds and borders, providing vibrant color and texture
• In mixed shrub borders, adding contrast and visual interest with its variegated foliage
• As a hedge or screen, offering privacy and seasonal interest
• In container gardens, bringing color to patios, decks, or balconies

Establishment and Care Instructions:

Planting: Choose a site with moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Dappled Willow prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate a range of soil types. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with soil and water thoroughly.

Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil consistently moist. Dappled Willow thrives with consistent moisture and should not be allowed to dry out completely.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain the desired shape and size. Dappled Willow responds well to pruning and can be cut back hard to encourage fresh, colorful growth.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth and vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to overly rapid growth that may be weak.

Special Features and Usage:

Dappled Willow offers several distinctive features:

• Foliage: Variegated leaves with shades of pink, white, and green create a dappled effect, adding dynamic color and texture to the landscape.
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing and adaptable, this shrub can quickly fill in spaces in the garden, making it useful for hedges and screens.
• Winter Interest: The stems of Dappled Willow can turn an attractive red or orange in winter, adding seasonal interest when the leaves have fallen.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, including regular watering and annual pruning to maintain shape and size.
• Versatility: Suitable for a variety of garden settings, including wet areas, making it a versatile addition to many landscape designs.
• Wildlife Friendly: Provides habitat and food for various birds and insects, supporting local biodiversity.