Salix purpurea aka Basket Willow

Taxonomy

Salix purpurea, also known as purple willow, purpleosier willow, or purple osier, is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 18 feet tall and wide. It is native to most of Europe and western Asia, including the British Isles, Poland, and the Baltic States, as well as parts of Northern Africa and temperate central Asia. In North America, it was introduced as a means of reducing erosion along stream banks and lake shores, but has now naturalized in moist low-ground areas. The plant has purple-brown to yellow-brown shoots that turn pale grey as they age, and narrow, linear to oblanceolate leaves that are dark green above and glaucous green below. Unlike most willows, the leaves are often arranged in opposite pairs rather than alternate. In early spring, small purple or red catkins appear, measuring between 1.5 and 4.5 cm long, with male and female flowers on separate plants. The catkins on female shrubs produce small seed capsules that split open when ripe to release seeds. Salix purpurea is a source of salicin, a chemical used medically for pain relief similar to aspirin. The plant's shoots, called withies, are commonly used in basketry, and the wood is used for making cricket bats. The weeping cultivar 'Pendula' has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Purple Willow is also a rare houseplant that prefers long-lasting, direct light and soil that retains moisture. It belongs to the Salix genus and is native to Europe and Africa. Regular watering and gentle, organic fertilizer during the peak growing season can help it thrive.

Common names

Basket Willow, Purple Osier, Purple Willow

How to care for Basket Willow

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Basket Willow is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

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

Soil

Basket Willow is very sensitive to dry soil. To ensure your Purple Osier is thriving and blooming, choose a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still allow for adequate drainage and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great soil additives that will help to retain moisture and provide your Purple Willow with the nutrients it needs for healthy growth. Make sure to mix these soil additives into the potting soil before planting and water the soil thoroughly. By providing your Basket Willow with a well-draining, moisture-retaining soil, you can help to maximize its growth and keep it blooming.

Lighting

Basket Willow requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Purple Osier is always in the right place to thrive.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Basket Willow is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Region of origin

Basket Willow’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Belgium south and east to N. Africa, temperate Asia to Japan.


More info:
Wikipedia