The Corkscrew Willow, also known as the Chinese Willow, has been introduced into many areas as
an ornamental tree, including Australia, Europe and North America. A particularly popular cultivar is Salix matsudana 'Tortuosa',
the "Corkscrew Willow" (also known as the Hankow Willow, Curly Willow or Globe Willow), in which the branches and
twigs grow in a spiral, twisting manner. As a result of the ornamental shape of the branches and twigs, this cultivar is commonly
used as a bonsai plant and for floral arrangements.
Another cultivar of hybrid origin between Chinese Willow and
White Willow is 'Austree'; this is an exceptionally fast-growing cultivar with straight (not contorted) branches,
sold for screening and fast tree cover.
Keep moist until established. Then it is adaptable and hardy.
Sun Required:
Full Sun to Partial Sun
Soil Types:
Able to grow in many soils, especially poor soils and those with poor drainage.
Hardiness Zones:
4 - 8 See ArborDay.org map chart below.
Flower Color:
Inconspicuous and not showy
Foliage Color:
Green
Fall Foliage Color:
Yellow
Mature Height:
20 - 40 feet
Mature Spread:
15 - 30 feet
Mature Form:
Symmetrical canopy with regular (smooth) outline. It features ornamental, contorted, twisted branches and twigs
which are often used in decorating and floral arrangements.
