Dewystem Willow

Salix irrorata

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Salicaceae
Genus:
Salix
Species:
Salix irrorata

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub
Height:
20-40 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jan, feb, mar, apr, may, dec
Bloom Colors:
Yellow, Purple

Native Range

United States: Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★☆☆☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)
Bee Keystone:
★☆☆☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
Commonly found along streambanks and wetlands

Germination Information

Pre-treatment: None required

Establishment: The most critical factor in the collection of viable Salix seed is frequent observation of catkin development. Harvest catkins when cotton emerges from partially opened capsules. Store catkins in paper sacks to capture seed as the capsules open during drying. Seed dispersal usually only takes a few days in a room with dry air and normal working temperatures.

Source: npn.rngr.net