← Back to results

Red Willow

Salix laevigata

shrub View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

high

Soil

Fast, Medium, Slow, Standing; Heavy, moist soils.

Size

30–50ft tall , 30–50ft wide

Bloom

Jan-Dec

Foliage

Deciduous

Keystone Plant

Supports up to 328 butterfly and moth species in Mediterranean California

Native Range

Riparian areas and streamside vegetation throughout California, from coastal lowlands to 5000 ft elevation

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your red willow in full sun in heavy, moist soil that can handle slow to standing water - this is a wetland native, so soggy sites that would kill other trees are exactly where it thrives. Plant in fall or winter when the tree is dormant. This fast-growing tree will eventually reach 30–50 feet, so give it plenty of space and avoid planting near structures or where cottony seeds from female trees might be an issue.

After Planting

Water weekly for the first summer to establish deep roots, then back off to once weekly or less as needed once established. Red willow is deciduous and will drop its leaves in winter - this is normal. The #1 mistake is planting it in well-draining soil or letting it dry out; this tree wants consistently moist conditions year-round. Once established, it's an easy-care tree that rarely needs pruning unless you're managing its form.

Visit Calscape for more information about Red Willow