Salix purpurea

Europe to North Africa.

Purple osier is a bushy and broad-growing large shrub. It usually reaches a height of 3 - 6 m and is approx. 3 - 6 m wide.

The shoots of Salix purpurea are reddish-brown.

The deciduous leaves of the Purple osier are medium green, lanceolate, alternate. They are about 8 - 10 cm in size.

Grey bark makes this plant an eye-catcher in any garden.

The purple-red flowers of Purple osier appear in catkins from March to April.

Salix purpurea is a heartroot and, depending on the soil, forms densely branched roots.

Preferred location in a sunny to semi-shady position.

The Purple osier has good frost hardiness.

Normal soil.

Solitary, hedge

The plant has a medium water requirement.

- A slow-release fertiliser can be used in spring. This releases the nutrients slowly and continuously so that the plant is evenly supplied over a longer period of time.
- This plant does not tolerate heavy soil. If necessary, the soil structure can be improved when planting by working in sand and mature compost.

This plant is tolerant of pruning.

Container plants can be planted all year round, except when the soil is frozen and in summer heat (over 30°C).