Salix alba var. vitellina 'Britzensis' 12ltr pot

Salix alba var. vitellina 'Britzensis' – Scarlet Willow (12L Pot)

'Britzensis', also known as 'Chermesina', is one of the most striking willows for winter colour. Its young stems glow a fiery scarlet-orange from leaf fall until spring, lighting up the garden on the dullest days and looking spectacular when caught by low sun or reflected in water. Small yellow catkins appear in spring, followed by narrow, mid-green leaves through summer. It's vigorous and easy to grow, and ideal for damp ground, pond and stream edges, and winter-interest borders. It makes a superb partner for golden-stemmed willows and white-barked birches.

It grows to around 6m x 4m after 10 years if left unpruned. For the most vivid stems, cut it back hard in early spring every year or two. This coppicing or pollarding encourages plenty of brightly coloured new growth and keeps the plant compact. Plant in full sun in moist or wet soil. It tolerates chalk, clay and coastal conditions. As with all willows, keep it well away from drains and buildings.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.