Salix babylonica var. pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’ (Corkscrew Willow)

Very fast-growing, Salix babylonica var. pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’ (Corkscrew Willow) is a medium-sized deciduous tree of upright spreading habit, noted for its amazing spirally contorted twigs and branches. The foliage of narrow leaves, up to 4 in. long (10 cm), is also twisted. Short-lived, this popular willow is primarily grown for its fantastic winter silhouette and cut branches for arrangements. A most useful willow for sunny sites and moist soils with outstanding ornamental value throughout the year.

• Grows up to 20-30 ft. tall (6-9 m) and 10-15 ft. wide (3-5 m).
• Performs best in full sun in medium to wet, well-drained soils.
• Easy to grow and easy to care for, this willow is deer-resistant. Keep an eye out for aphids, caterpillars, leaf beetles, sawflies, willow anthracnose diseases and a rust.
• Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or hardwood cuttings in winter.
• No routine pruning necessary. Prune as needed in late winter to early spring.
• Salix babylonica var. pekinensis species is native to Northeast China, Korea and Eastern Siberia.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.