Salix Erythroflexuosa Willow

Salix Erythroflexuosa or Golden Corkscrew Willow, is a truly spectacular twisted pendulous willow variety. This deciduous small tree or shrub is best known for its unusual torturous branches. When young, the stems have a vibrant orange-red colour, which adds to their ornamental value. This plant is the recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit by Royal Horticultural Society, a sure sign of its qualities.

In the spring, the contorted branches bear lance-shaped green leaves, also slightly curly. This pendulous willow next produces yellow catkins, whose brilliant golden hue wonderfully contrasts the reddish stems. But while no one can deny that Willow Erythroflexuosa looks gorgeous throughout the year, it is during winter when this willow variety really shines through. The mass of contorted, twisted branches creates a breathtaking architectural display, and the warm red colour of the bark adds a splash of colour to a dull winter landscape.

Height and Spread of Salix Erythroflexuosa
The expected height of Golden Corkscrew Willow is around 5 metres with a spread of around 3 metres. These cultivars have a fast growth rate but they are not invasive.

How Hardy is Salix Erythroflexuosa
One of the reasons why Golden Corkscrew Willow won the Award of Garden Merit is the fact it is a reliable performer, ideally suited for UK climate. This contorted willow is fully hardy, and will not be bothered by subzero temperatures.

How To Use Willow Erythroflexuosa
If grown as a small tree, Salix Erythroflexuosa can be the perfect specimen tree for a compact garden. Offering year-round interest, this striking deciduous willow will always be in the centre of attention. Grow it isolated on a lawn for structural value, or near a patio, where the display of twisted branches could offer summer shade in addition to decoration. The unusual twisted twigs make beautiful cuttings, as well.

How To Care for Willow Erythroflexuosa
Golden Corkscrew Willow does not require much care or fussing about to thrive. Simply pick out a sunny spot in the garden, and make sure that the soil in which it grows is moist or wet. Not unlike most willows, this cultivar also prefers boggy, damp conditions. Routinely remove dead branches or congested stems. In case you want to encourage more new growth and revitalise your Salix Erythroflexuosa, hard prune it - but only if the cultivar is over 2 years old.

We stock various willow varieties - from pendulous cultivars such as Golden Weeping Willow to columnar varieties like the Salix Babylonica Tortuosa. Make sure to take a look at our vast collection of deciduous trees for more fully hardy cultivars.