Downy Willow (Salix Lapponum)

Downy Willow

Features and Characteristics

Salix lapponum, commonly known as downy willow or Lapland willow, is native to alpine areas in Europe and Asia including Scandinavian areas within the Arctic circle. It is a densely-branched, deciduous shrub which typically grows to 5′ tall. Elliptic-oblong to lance-shaped leaves (to 2″ long) are downy olive green above and woolly gray green beneath. Silvery catkins with yellow to red anthers appear in spring just before or as the leaves emerge.

Genus name is the Latin name for this plant.

Specific epithet means of Lapland, northern Scandinavia.

Care and Maintenance

Best grown in sandy or rocky, medium moisture soils in full sun to light shade. Tolerates poor soils.

Downy Willow (Salix Lapponum) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Sun light	Full Sun
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

Salix lapponum has not been extensively grown in the St. Louis area, and it is not yet clear how this alpine shrub will adapt to the St. Louis climate. Willows are generally susceptible to a number of disease problems including cankers, blights, galls, leaf spots, powdery mildew and rust. Potential insect pests generally include borers, caterpillars and scale.

Uses

Rock gardens. Slopes. Shrub borders. May be difficult to find in commerce.

Downy Willow (Salix Lapponum) Details

Common name	Downy Willow
Botanical name	Salix Lapponum
Plant type	Deciduous Shrub
Family	Salicaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 7
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Yellow To Red Anthers
Flowering period	April
Height	3 - 5 Ft.
Width	3 - 5 Ft.