About
Salix repens, the creeping willow, is a variable, low-growing deciduous shrub usually no more than 1 m high with creeping roots, slender stems and small, oval to oblong, silky-hairy green leaves. Small, yellow-green catkins are produced before the leaves in spring. Sometimes grafted as a standard to create a small weeping tree. A rewarding and versatile native willow for a moist, sunny garden.
About the genus
Salix, the willows, are deciduous shrubs and trees of very diverse habit, with simple leaves and tiny flowers in catkins, male and female usually on separate plants. Some are valued for brightly coloured winter shoots, others for ornamental catkins, foliage or stature.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitPendulous weeping, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurasia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any deep, moist soil in full sun. Avoid shallow chalk soil
PruningPruning group 1 or 7
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, willow leaf beetle, sawflies and willow scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to willow anthracnose, honey fungus and rust diseases