Salix pentandra aka Bay Willow

Taxonomy

Genus Salix Family Salicaceae Order Malpighiales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Salix pentandra, commonly known as the bay willow or laurel willow, is a species of willow native to northern Europe and northern Asia. This bushy deciduous tree can reach heights of up to 10 meters. It has glossy dark green leaves, measuring about 12cm in length, which bear a striking resemblance to those of the bay laurel. Other common names for this tree include bay-leaved willow. The male flowers of Salix pentandra have five stamens, which is reflected in its scientific name. In early summer, the tree produces showy catkins, with the male ones being yellow and the female ones green. Salix pentandra is often planted as an ornamental tree due to its decorative glossy leaves. It is a fast-growing tree that thrives in various soil types, including light sandy, medium loamy, and heavy clay soils. It prefers moist or wet soil conditions and is not tolerant of shade. This species is dioecious, with separate male and female flowers on different plants, requiring both genders for seed production. Bees are the primary pollinators for this tree. The fruit of Salix pentandra is a small capsule containing numerous minute seeds, which are dispersed by the wind due to the white down surrounding them. Overall, Salix pentandra is a beautiful and versatile tree, widely appreciated for its aesthetic appeal and adaptability to different soil conditions.

Common names

Bay Willow, Laurel Willow, Bay Leaf Willow

How to care for Bay Willow

Difficulty

If you're an experienced gardener looking to push your limits, Bay Willow will provide you with a rewarding and challenging experience.

Water

Bay Willow should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Bay Willow, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Bay Willow is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Bay Willow will thrive!

Lighting

Bay Willow requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Bay Willow will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Region of origin

Bay Willow’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Norway south and east to the Pyrenees, Siberia, Caucasus, W. Asia.

More info:
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More Species in Salix Genus

Salix myrsinifolia Dark Leaf Willow

Salix integra Dappled Willow

Salix schwerinii

Salix appendiculata Pussy Willow

Salix lemmonii Lemmon's Willow

Salix Willow

Salix exigua Sandbar Willow

Salix pseudopentandra Bay Willow, Laurel Willow

Salix sericea Silky Willow

Salix miyabeana