Salix elaeagnos (salix rosmarinifolia) 'ANGUSTIFOLIA' hoary willow, rosemary-leaved willow

Angustifolia is a subspecies of hoary willow from South and Central Europe. It is a dwarf version growing only 1 or 2 meters tall. It is so different from the species that many gardeners and botanists prefer its classification as a separate species salix rosmarinifolia – rosemary-leaved willow.

This willow makes very narrow, linear, deciduous leaves that are rich green in summer, white-hairy beneath, and yellow in autumn. It naturally forms a dense shrub that looks like a fluffy cloud. It responds to the merest breeze and offers the same movement like bamboos. It looks great in cottage gardens as well as in modern landscapes where it brings a touch of softness and elegance.

It grows moderately and is easy to grow. You can cut, prune or trim it in any way you like, preferably in late winter or early spring. Willows can usually take almost any soil apart from too sandy, sharply drained, dry situations. They don’t mind compacted, heavy or water-logged grounds. Grow it in light shade or full sun with occasional watering on hot days of summer to prevent the leaves from drying out. It is fully hardy to about -34°C and suitable for growing in outdoor pots if you remember to water it.

Last update 18-03-2014