Contorted willow

A tall shrubby upright willow with twisted and contorted branches that spiral upwards, bearing interesting twisted leaves that are said to resemble dragons claws. Popular among florists as they can easily fit the cuttings into almost any bouquet. Salix babylonica Tortuosa has a stunning silhouette in the Winter, coupled with light brown branches. Easily grown from cuttings, it can also be coppiced to grow in smaller gardens.

Site: Tolerates some exposure
Soil: Any, not too dry
Position: Full sun
Notable uses: Hedging, wet ground, ornamental, floristry
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: Up to 20ft (6m) Spread: 10ft (3m) in approx 20 years

How to use: Can be used for hedging, in wet areas, as an ornamental, or by florists. Just take cuttings and they’ll easily fit into bouquets. Plant it in a spot with some exposure, full sun, and any soil that’s not too dry. It grows up to 20ft tall and 10ft wide in about 20 years. Maintenance: Hardy and easy to grow from cuttings. You can also coppice it for smaller gardens. Note: Keep an eye on the soil moisture, don’t let it get too dry.