The Care and Propagation of Japanese Dappled Willows

For many years now I have really enjoyed the beauty of our Japanese dappled willows (Salix integra). Japanese dappled willows (or tri-colored willows) are gorgeous shrubby willows that grow up to around 10ft tall. These willows are known for their variegated foliage that emerges initially as pink before gradually turning to green and white on the leaves. Here is a complete care guide that you may find helpful if you choose to add these beautiful shrubs to your garden.

Japanese Dappled Willow Care Guide

Sunlight: Does a Japanese Dappled Willow need full sun?

The Japanese Dappled Willow, scientifically known as Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki,’ thrives in full sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, providing at least six hours of direct sunlight daily ensures optimal growth and vibrant foliage. The more sunlight it receives, the more spectacular the display of its characteristic reddish-tinted leaves in spring.

Watering: How much water does a Japanese Dappled Willow need?

In its early growth stages, the Japanese Dappled Willow demands frequent watering. Water the soil around the tree twice weekly, ensuring moisture penetrates at least 2 inches deep. As the shrub matures, reduce watering frequency to once a week. Stick your finger into the soil up to an inch down near the plant. If the soil is dry then give it some water.

Soil: What type of soil is best for a Japanese Dappled Willow?

These willows are adaptable to various soil types but thrive in well-draining, moist soil. When planting, choose a location with soil that retains some moisture. Mulching around the base, especially in the early stages, helps maintain soil moisture, promoting healthy root development.

Pruning: How and when to prune a Japanese Dappled Willow?

Pruning the Japanese Dappled Willow is not mandatory, but it can stimulate new growth and maintain a tidy appearance. Late winter, just before the prime growing season, is the ideal time for pruning. Trim up to one-third of existing branches, keeping in mind that the mature width is similar to its height—around 8 to 10 feet.

Salix integra may also be pruned as a standard. This is where a strong main leader is selected then all the rest of the side branches are removed. The top of the plant then gets snipped to encourage branching at the top of the shrub. The main stem is kept free of branches and leaves and the top is allowed to form a ball shape.

Japanese dappled willows can also be used in bonsai however I have very little experience in growing bonsai plants.

Growth: How fast does a Japanese Dappled Willow grow?

Known for its rapid growth, the Japanese Dappled Willow can put on substantial height and width within a growing season. Regular pruning can help control its growth and create a more vibrant and thick foliage display.

Winter care: How to protect a Japanese Dappled Willow in winter?

While the Japanese Dappled Willow is hardy in zones 4-9, providing some winter care ensures its health. Applying a layer of mulch around the base helps protect the roots from extreme cold. Additionally, strategic pruning can prevent snow accumulation, reducing the risk of damage to the branches.

Growing Tip: Avoid Black Walnut Trees

Over the years squirrels planted walnut trees in and around the willows we had. Due to the juglones in the walnuts the health and vigor of our willows gradually depleted. I highly recommend planting away from walnut trees and removing them should they begin to grow. Juglones are a chemical secreted by the walnut trees that makes them allelopathic which essentially means they prevent other plants from growing and thriving nearby.

Propagating Japanese Dappled Willows

Propagating Japanese Dappled Willows is an extremely easy process and I’ve done it many times over. Our original plants were not purchased but came from my in-laws house. I rooted them then placed them in our yard to continue to grow. Propagating dappled willow is most easily accomplished through cuttings. Plants may be divided but as they grow larger division is less of an option. Other than cuttings dappled willows can be propagated with layering and air layering but in my opinion they are best propagated by cuttings. Here’s a more detailed description of taking cuttings of dappled willows:

How to Grow Japanese dappled willows from cuttings:

1. Softwood or Hardwood Cuttings:

• Timing: Softwood cuttings are typically taken in late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing while hardwood cuttings are generally taken after dormancy until a couple weeks before growth begins. The two methods are extremely similar for willows.
• Steps:
  1. Choose a healthy, disease-free branch with soft, flexible, and new growth.
  2. Use sharp and clean pruning shears, take a cutting that is approximately 4-6 inches long, with at least two sets of leaves.
  3. Remove the leaves from the lower half to one-third of the cutting.
  4. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone to encourage root development. Willows have a lot of natural rooting hormones called auxins and don’t normally need rooting hormone. I typically will not use rooting hormone for willows.
  5. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, combination of perlite and peat, sand or other rooting medium. I like to use sand for my cuttings. You can read why I use sand for plant propagation here: Why I Like Sand as a Medium for Plant Propagation.
  6. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide a humid environment by covering the cutting with a plastic bag or using a propagator. I don’t always cover my cuttings and instead will give them occasional misting and watering. For hardwood cuttings in the fall and winter don’t worry about covering them. That will allow the natural rainfall to keep them wet. Just be sure to water during dry spells in the winter.
  7. Put the cuttings in a location with indirect light. Direct sunlight will dry them out, especially if you have covered them with plastic.
  8. After a few weeks, when roots have developed, transplant the rooted cutting into a larger container or directly into the garden.

Can Dappled Willows be Rooted in Water?

Yes! Dappled willows easily will root in water. Do the same steps as above except use water as your medium. You will get to watch the roots form which can be a lot of fun to see. Once the cuttings have a number of roots transplant into pots or your garden to grow a stronger root system.

Tips for Successful Propagation:

• Always use clean and sharp cutting tools to prevent infections.
• Choose healthy and disease-free parent plants for propagation.
• Consider using a rooting hormone to increase the success rate of rooting.
• Provide consistent moisture and a controlled environment for cuttings to root successfully.
• Monitor the newly propagated plants for signs of stress or disease and take corrective action if needed.

Common Questions About Japanese Dappled Willow:

Are Japanese Dappled willows Deciduous?

Yes. They will fully lose their leaves in the winter.

Japanese Dappled Willow vs Weeping Willow: What are the differences?

While both are willow varieties, they differ significantly. Japanese Dappled Willows are more compact, reaching around 8 to 10 feet in height, with striking variegated foliage. In contrast, Weeping Willows are larger, reaching 30-40 feet in height, with long, cascading branches and simple green leaves.

Is a Japanese Dappled Willow an invasive plant?

Japanese Dappled Willows are not considered invasive. They are well-behaved ornamental shrubs that can be utilized in various landscaping settings without fear of aggressive spreading. Careful placement is important as their roots like other willows will move toward water sources. Avoid planting right against houses. Dappled willows make very good deciduous privacy screens.

Acquisition and Availability:

Where to buy a Japanese Dappled Willow: Nurseries, garden centers, online retailers?

Japanese Dappled Willows are commonly available in nurseries, garden centers, and through online retailers. Local nurseries provide the advantage of inspecting the plant in person, while online retailers offer the convenience of home delivery. If you can find someone that has one just ask to take a few cuttings from it. The store prices for these plants are much higher than I believe they really should be based on the ease of rooting new plants.

Specific Uses and Features:

Japanese Dappled Willow bonsai: Can it be trained as a miniature tree?

Yes, the Japanese Dappled Willow is well-suited for bonsai cultivation. Its fast growth and responsiveness to pruning make it an excellent candidate for creating a miniature version of this stunning ornamental shrub.

Japanese Dappled Willow uses: Landscaping ideas and applications.

The versatility of the Japanese Dappled Willow makes it suitable for various landscaping applications. It can be used as a privacy screen, corner plant, border shrub, or a focal point in your garden. Its striking foliage adds aesthetic appeal to any landscape.

Problems and Solutions:

Japanese Dappled Willow diseases: Common fungal issues and prevention.

Like many plants, Japanese Dappled Willows are susceptible to fungal diseases. To prevent issues, ensure proper spacing for air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and promptly remove any diseased foliage. Applying fungicides as a preventive measure during the growing season can also be beneficial. Overall they are not extraordinarily disease prone.

Japanese Dappled Willow pests: Aphids, scale insects, and pest control methods.

While generally resistant to pests, Japanese Dappled Willows may occasionally face challenges. Aphids and scale insects can be deterred with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regular inspection and prompt action help maintain the health of this awesome shrub. Deer were present but did not have much of an impact once my willows were established. Initially it was necessary to protect our young plants with a plastic mesh to prevent grazing.

Japanese Dappled Willows can really be a beautiful plant for your garden. With its stunning appearance, adaptability, and cultural significance, this ornamental shrub is a valuable addition to any landscape, providing year-round beauty.