Salix caprea 'KILMARNOCK' (Pendula) weeping willow

Kilmarnock is a popular weeping willow which owing to its small size is a common feature in small gardens and front yards. It produces profusion of catkins with yellow anthers in early spring that is usually the first important source of food for bees. The height of the plant depends on the size of rootstock it is grafted on. Deciduous leaves are grey-green, elliptic, 5-10 cm long.

Willows are generally easy to grow almost anywhere, just avoid shallow, chalky soil. It likes water but surprisingly does not wither in its absence – it only grows slower and less dense. Pruning is essential unless you want all the branches lying on the ground soon. Prune the crown hard every spring to maintain an umbrella shape. Hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 25-11-2010