The Silver Leaf Willow (Salix alba var. sericea or Salix alba ‘Sericea’) is a beautiful deciduous tree known for its shimmering, silvery foliage. It’s a cultivar or variation of the White Willow (Salix alba), native to Europe and parts of Asia, but widely grown in North America and elsewhere for ornamental purposes.

Key Features:

• Leaves: Long, narrow, and finely serrated with silvery undersides or a consistent silver-gray hue from fine hairs on both sides.
• Height: Can grow up to 50–70 feet tall.
• Shape: Typically has a graceful, upright or weeping form with spreading branches.
• Growth rate: Fast-growing tree.
• Bark: Grayish-brown and furrowed with age.

Growing Conditions:

• Light: Full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; tolerates clay or sandy soils. Prefers areas with consistent moisture (often found near rivers or ponds).
• Water: Thrives in moist conditions but can tolerate short dry periods once established.
• Hardiness zones: USDA zones 4–9.

Uses:

• Ornamental landscape tree, especially for adding texture and color contrast.
• Used in erosion control due to its strong root system.
• Historically, willow bark (including from Salix alba) was used medicinally for its salicin content (a natural form of aspirin).

Considerations:

• Because of its fast growth and large size, it needs space to thrive.
• Roots can be invasive, so avoid planting near septic systems, sidewalks, or foundations.
• Prone to some pests and diseases like willow blight or cankers, so some maintenance is required.