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Detailed Information about the Japanese Willow Tree

Throughout Japan, many beautiful trees grow but one in particular gets the most attention – the Japanese Willow Tree. One of the more popular species is the “Weeping Cherry Tree” for the overall shape but specifically, the lacy leaves. This tree also features purple foliage that during the fall turns to a beautiful red. In addition, the tree produces small, vibrant red cherries that are simply stunning. This particular Japanese Willow Tree is often depicted in Japanese paintings due to the bright red cherries that contrast with the white snow.

Now, if you prefer a species of the Japanese Willow Tree that produces bright green leaves during the springtime, Salix Babylonica is an exceptional choice. In fact, of all species, this is among the first to produce springtime leaves but also one of the last to drop the leaves during the fall. The foliate of the Salix is also beautiful in the summer and by fall the leaves turn an amazing yellow color. This type of Japanese Willow Tree is different from others in that it can grow upwards to 40 feet and have a spread of 30 feet.

Then, there is the Japanese Willow Tree known as the “Golden Weeping Willow” or officially, Salix Alba Niobe”. Of all maple trees in this category, this one can tolerate cold best, actually growing extremely well in zone 2. Another common species is the Salix Caprea Pendula, otherwise known as the Pussy Willow Tree. The catkins are silver gray and cascade beautifully. One of the benefits of choosing this type of Japanese Willow Tree is that it remains stunning all year long.

Now, if you prefer a smaller Japanese Willow Tree, you could choose the dwarf species, which only reaches about six feet tall and has a spread around five feet. Regardless of the Japanese Willow Tree chosen, they are all fast growing. However, the thin stems that grow from the branches and then droop to the ground are what make it so attractive. In addition, the leaves are thin and lance shaped, and depending on the species, some have a silky underside.

Because the Japanese Willow Tree is so versatile and hardy, you would also find it a popular choice for people that have challenging soil or problem areas in the landscape. Keep in mind, this type of tree loves plenty of sunlight so the area where planted is important. Some of the other possibilities for the Japanese Willow Tree include the following:

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Weeping Mulberry Tree, which is sometimes called the White Mulberry Tree features male and female cultivars. The male cultivar does not produce fruit whereas the female does. This species attracts birds and butterflies and is a great choice overall.

* The Red Jade is also a great option, which produces dainty white flowers, as well as ornamental red fruit that will continue to grow even during the cold, winter months.

* Young’s Weeping Birch is a type of dwarf that has a beautiful weeping effect but also white bark that makes it ideal for any landscaping project.

* The Weeping Blue Alaskan Cedar is another of the species for Japanese Willow Tree that grows well in zones 4 to 7 and usually reaches 10 feet at maturity.

* The Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar is not actually a cedar tree but an evergreen. The icy blue needles make this an ornamental tree that does well in zones 6 to 9.

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