Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’ Plant Description:
Common Name: Kilmarnock Willow, Weeping Willow
Scientific Name: Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’
Type: Deciduous Weeping Tree
Appearance:
Form: Compact, weeping habit with gracefully arching branches.
Size: Typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters) with a similar spread.
Leaves:
Foliage: Oval to lance-shaped leaves with a slightly serrated edge.
Color: Fresh green leaves that turn yellow in the fall.
Flowers:
Catkins: Produces small, fluffy, silver-gray catkins in early spring before the leaves emerge.
Pollination: Dioecious plant, meaning it has separate male and female plants. Only female plants produce fluffy seeds.
Sun Requirements:
Light: Full sun to partial shade. Thrives in sunny locations.
Soil and Moisture:
Soil: Well-draining soil. Can tolerate various soil types, including moist soils.
Moisture: Prefers consistently moist soil but can tolerate occasional wet conditions.
Hardiness Zones:
Hardy: Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Landscaping Uses:
Ornamental Accent: Adds a dramatic, weeping focal point to the landscape.
Small Gardens: Well-suited for smaller gardens and landscapes.
Water Features: Plant near ponds or water features for an elegant reflection in the water.
Maintenance:
Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Prune to maintain the desired shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Catkin Removal: Trimming spent catkins after flowering can enhance the tree’s appearance.
Disease and Pest Resistance:
Resilient: Generally resistant to major diseases and pests.
Special Features:
Winter Interest: The weeping branches create an attractive silhouette in the winter landscape.
Wildlife Habitat: Provides habitat and food for various wildlife, especially caterpillars and insects.
Note: Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’ is a charming ornamental tree valued for its weeping form and early spring catkins. It is an excellent choice for smaller gardens or spaces where a graceful and compact weeping tree is desired. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and structure.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.