Sharp-leaved willow (Salix acutifolia)

Sharp-leaved willow

Also known as: Long-leaved violet willow

The sharp-leaved willow is full of honey, so it attracts bees in small gardens. The specific epithet, acutifolia, from the Latin name, Salix acutifolia, means "sharp-leaved." It has been used as a medicine and food source and is cultivated in North America and Middle Asia. Its inner bark and young shoots are favored food sources for birds.

Scientific classification

Species

Sharp-leaved willow (Salix acutifolia)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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12 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow, Gray, Silver

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Sharp-leaved willow

Distribution Map

Sharp-leaved willow, with its pointed leaf formations, is native to temperate and subarctic regions typically found across northern Eurasia. Its range extends naturally to include parts of southwestern Asia. Beyond its natural habitat, sharp-leaved willow has been introduced and is now established in various north-central and northeastern European regions. Sharp-leaved willow is also cultivated, which has aided in its modest geographical expansion.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Riverside, inland sands, forest, steppe zones, along large rivers

Care Guide for Sharp-leaved willow

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to sporadic rainfall, sharp-leaved willow has robust drought tolerance and thrives with minimal hydration. It requires deep watering every 2-3 weeks, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation. This deciduous species balances water retention and seasonal shedding to maintain vitality.

Fertilize: In the early growth stage of sharp-leaved willow, apply a light nitrogen fertilizer 4-5 times. Mature sharp-leaved willow requires minimal fertilizer, but potassium sources like calcium phosphate can be used. In fertile soil, sharp-leaved willow exhibits healthy green leaves, and fertilization is unnecessary if nearby lawns are fertilized regularly.

Pruning: Sharp-leaved willow is a deciduous shrub with slender, lance-shaped leaves and eye-catching catkins. Prune in early spring, removing dead or damaged branches to encourage growth and improve air circulation. Thinning older stems promotes vigor and maintains shape, while regular pruning prevents disease and enhances garden aesthetics.

Propagation: Sharp-leaved willow is best propagated by taking 6-8 inch semi-woody stem cuttings, removing lower leaves to avoid rot, and planting in well-draining soil with two buried nodes. Consistent moisture and a stable environment are essential for rooting, which typically occurs within a few weeks.

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