Among the 300-odd members of its tribe, the weeping or Babylonia willow (Salix babylonica) is the most widely known for its unique value as a landscape tree. Only the pussywillows, prime favorites of millions who welcome the early foretastes of spring, can match it in popularity.
A typical weeping willow reaches its full height of 30’ or 40’ feet rather rapidly, for it has the family trait of surprisingly speedy growth. It is always. The epitome of well-bred grace, touched at times with quiet laughter as though the tree enjoyed just being alive.
Willow Best Season
The weeping willow’s best season starts with the spring appearance of countless slender, pointed 6” inch leaves strung along with the hanging and almost cordlike branchlets. The clean, living veil casts luminous yet grateful shade throughout the summer and into autumn, perfect for dreamy lounging. It will be here if there is an excellent spot to be found.
Such a tree is one for single-specimen use, for if it were sandwiched in among others, its effectiveness would indeed be compromised.
Since it needs no underplanting and its roots are spread widely, it can, if you wish, be provided with informal outdoor furniture to be used for comfortable alfresco meals or lounging. Even an uncemented, flagged, or pebbled terrace around the base may not be amiss.
Willow Trees Varieties
There are several different kinds of good drooping willow trees. Farther north—let’s say in the upper two-thirds of the United States—the leading weeping species is the golden willow, which is much more complicated and quite similar.
There are also a few hybrid forms containing a good deal of Babylonia “blood,” their hardiness lying between that of the golden and its cousin. The chief need is that its roots shall be able to get water, which they have an uncanny ability to find if it is anywhere around.
44659 by Robert S. Lemmon