Introduction
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen is a type of willow plant that belongs to the family Salicaceae. It is a slow-growing shrub that is typically found in cold climates such as the Arctic and subarctic regions of North America and Eurasia. This plant is known for its small size, unique morphology, and medicinal properties.Common Names
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen is commonly known as rostrate dwarf willow, beaked willow, and creeping willow. Inuit people also refer to it as "amautiqtuq," which means "the one that is used for making amauti" - a traditional Inuit parka that has a built-in baby pouch.Uses
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen has several medicinal properties, particularly as a pain reliever. It is used by indigenous people to treat headaches, fever, and other body pains. It is also used as a natural blood thinner to prevent blood clotting and reduce the risk of heart attacks. In addition, the bark of this plant is used for making traditional Inuit parkas. It is strong, lightweight, and provides excellent insulation against the cold. The stems and branches of the plant are also used for making baskets, fishing nets, and other household items.General Appearance
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen is a low-growing shrub that rarely exceeds a height of 15 cm. It has a mat-forming growth habit, with stems that creep along the ground and root at the nodes. The leaves of the plant are small, oval-shaped, and have a leathery texture. They are typically a bluish-green color and have pointed tips. The plant produces small, yellowish-green flowers that are borne in dense catkins in early spring. The flowers are followed by small, brownish-green capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds. The bark of the plant is dark brown and has a scaly texture. Overall, Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen is a hardy and versatile plant that has been used by indigenous people for centuries. Its small size, unique morphology, and medicinal properties make it a valuable addition to any garden or natural landscape.Light Requirements
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata typically grows in areas with plenty of direct sunlight. As an alpine plant species, it requires almost full sun to thrive properly. In shaded or partially shaded areas, the plant may fail to grow and develop as expected.
Temperature Requirements
The species is native to the cooler parts of the northern hemisphere, where it experiences a cool subarctic to the alpine environment. The temperature requirements of Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata depend on the altitudes and the specific location in which it is growing. In general, it can withstand extreme cold temperature and can grow in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 20°C. The warmer the temperature, the more moisture the plant requires to sustain its growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow well in a variety of soil types. However, it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Sandy soils are also suitable as long as there is sufficient moisture. The plant can grow in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The species can grow in nutrient-poor soils, but soil fertility is a significant determinant of its growth and development.
Cultivation
The Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen plant requires a sunny location with moist, well-drained soil. It can survive in rocky or gravelly soils and is quite tolerant of cold temperatures. It can be propagated through cuttings or by seed. Propagation through cuttings is usually more successful and should be done in early spring. The plant should be given adequate space to spread, and mature plants can reach heights of around 1.5 feet.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, as it cannot tolerate excessive drought. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot. A layer of mulch can help to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The amount of fertilizer needed will depend on the size and age of the plant, as well as the soil conditions. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this can burn the roots and damage the plant.
Pruning
The plant needs only minimal pruning, and this should be done in late winter or early spring. Only dead or damaged branches should be removed, and branches that are interfering with paths or walkways. Pruning should not exceed a third of the plant's total size. Over-pruning can damage the plant and reduce flowering. The Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen plant has a naturally compact shape and does not require shaping or shearing.
Propagation methods of Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata (Richards.) Hiitonen
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata, commonly known as Beaked Willow, can be propagated through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The propagation through seeds is possible; however, it is not the most common method due to their low germination rate. To increase the germination rate, you can soak the seeds in water or GA3 (gibberellic acid) solution for 24-48 hours before sowing them in a moist soil mix. After planting, keep the soil consistently damp and provide indirect light.
Cutting Propagation
The most common method for propagating Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata is through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The cutting should be approximately 6-8 inches long, cut from the previous year's growth, and taken from the upper part of the plant. Remove the lower leaves and cut the remaining foliage in half to minimize water loss. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a mix of perlite or vermiculite and peat moss. The cuttings should be kept moist and in indirect light.
Division
Another method of propagating Beaked Willow is through division. This method is best done in the early spring when the plant begins to put out new shoots. Dig up the entire plant and separate it into sections, making sure each section has a viable root system. Replant each section in a soil mix recommended for the plant and keep moist.
Disease Management
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata is a relatively disease-resistant species. However, it is not immune to diseases that affect other willow species. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Crown Gall: This bacterial disease causes swollen and distorted growth at the base of the plant. To manage it, remove and destroy infected plants and avoid planting in areas where infected plants grew previously.
- Willow Scab: This fungal disease causes black spots on leaves, stems, and fruits. To manage it, remove infected plant parts and apply fungicide sprays during the growing season.
- Leaf Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on leaves and can defoliate the plant. To manage it, remove infected leaves and spray with fungicides during the growing season.
Pest Management
Salix depressa L. ssp. rostrata can be attacked by several pests that feed on the plant's leaves, stems, and roots. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Aphids: These small insects attack the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Willow Leaf Beetles: These insects feed on the leaves, causing skeletonized damage. To manage them, handpick them and destroy them or apply insecticidal sprays.
- Root Weevils: These insects feed on the plant's roots, causing stunted growth and plant decline. To manage them, apply soil drenches of insecticides or use beneficial nematodes.
