Salix atrocinerea
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Salix atrocinerea

Grey Willow · Rusty sallow · Smooth-Twig Gray Willow · Large gray willow · Rusty Willow

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
5–32 °C
Soil pH
6–8
Hardiness
Zone 4–8
Click count
867
Observations
3,182

Description

Source: leafsnap

Salix atrocinerea, commonly known as Grey Willow, is a deciduous tree belonging to the Salicaceae family. Native to Europe and western Asia, it can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree features a slender trunk, a rounded crown, and greyish-brown bark that becomes fissured with age. The leaves of Salix atrocinerea are lance-shaped, up to 10 cm long, and have finely serrated edges. They are dark green on the upper surface and paler underneath. In early spring, the tree produces catkins before the leaves emerge. Salix atrocinerea prefers moist soils in full sun or partial shade but can tolerate dry conditions once established. It is commonly used for erosion control along riverbanks and serves as an ornamental tree in gardens due to its attractive foliage. The wood of Grey Willow is utilized for making baskets, furniture, paper pulp, and charcoal. It is also valued as fuelwood due to its high calorific value. Overall, Salix atrocinerea is a versatile plant species. It serves multiple purposes, from being an ornamental plant for gardens and parks to controlling erosion along riverbanks. Additionally, its wood is useful for various applications, making it a valuable and adaptable plant.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

The large gray willow naturally grows in moist environments and thrives with consistent watering. It prefers stable soil moisture and should be watered twice a week to meet its needs. Rainwater is particularly beneficial for the plant. Typically found outdoors, the large gray willow requires this level of care for optimal growth during its active seasons.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
☀️ Light Full sun

Large gray willow is found in open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, where light is abundant. It does best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to various light conditions.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for a Large Gray Willow (Salix atrocinerea)?

The Large Gray Willow (Salix atrocinerea) needs specific sunlight conditions to thrive. It requires full sun, which is above 6 hours of sunlight daily, or partial sun, which amounts to about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. It's important to observe how sunlight moves through your garden to find the ideal location that offers a perfect balance of light and shade. This careful placement ensures the plant's happiness and health.

🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C

Large gray willow is highly adaptable to a wide range of climates, from blistering summers to freezing winters. It does, however, have a preferred temperature range for healthy growth. If temperatures rise too much, the plant becomes vulnerable to heat and humidity stress, which can kill it. In areas where temperatures approach the lower limit of its cold tolerance, insulating the plant is important to protect it.

Ideal temperature: 5–32.2°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 6-8
Soil pH: 6-8
🌱 Fertilizer

To encourage healthy growth, fertilize your Large gray willow in early spring. Regular feeding boosts overall health, leading to vigorous growth, greater tolerance of harsh conditions, and improved resistance to pests and diseases. Adhere to a consistent fertilization schedule for your Large gray willow to keep foliage vibrant with deep color and a lush appearance.

🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning

The large gray willow is characterized by its silver-gray leaves and fast growth. To maintain its health and appearance, it is best to prune it in early spring. Focus on thinning out crowded branches to improve air circulation and removing any dead wood. This practice promotes a balanced structure, enhances the tree's aesthetics, and encourages vigorous growth, all of which contribute to a healthy and attractive presence in the landscape.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Tree
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Salix
Family
Salicaceae
Hardiness Zone
4-8
Mature Height
10.06 m
Mature Spread
10.06 m
Leaf Color
Green, Gray, Silver
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
Bloom Time
Late winter, Early spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid spring, Late spring
Native Area
Germany, Tunisia, Portugal, Spain, Ireland, United Kingdom, Algeria, Morocco, Belgium, France

Tags (6)

Common Names (8)

en Grey Willow
en Rusty sallow
en Smooth-Twig Gray Willow
en Large gray willow
en Rusty Willow
en Large Grey Willow
en Common Sallow
en Pussy Willow