DAPPLED WILLOW

• Appearance: Tri-colored foliage (pink, white, and green) that fades to mostly green later in the summer. Bright red stems offer winter interest.
• Form: Rounded, shrubby form, or a small tree if pruned into a single trunk.
• Size:
  
  • Shrub: 6-10 feet tall and wide
  • Tree: Up to 15 feet tall
• Growth Rate: Fast (2-3 feet per year), achieving its full size in a few years.
• Lifespan: Typically 15-20 years as they are susceptible to weather damage, but regenerate fairly quickly.
• Light Requirements: Full sun for the most vibrant colors, tolerates partial shade.
• Soil: Adaptable, thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
• Water: Prefers regular watering, especially when young. Drought-tolerant once established.
• Flowers and Seeds: Inconspicuous yellow catkins appear in spring, followed by small capsules containing seeds. These are not particularly showy but can add a touch of texture.
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
• Uses: Specimen plant, borders, privacy screens, near ponds or streams

Interesting Facts

• A Japanese Delight: This cultivar originated in Japan, where it was prized for its unique variegated foliage and graceful form.
• Fast-Growing Charmer: The Dappled Willow grows quickly, allowing you to enjoy its beauty within a few years of planting.
• Attracts Beneficial Wildlife: The weeping form and dense foliage can provide a haven for songbirds and other small creatures.
• Winter Interest: After the leaves fall, the vibrant coral red bark takes center stage, adding a pop of color to the winter landscape, especially when contrasted against snow.