Origin
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball, also known as myrtle willow, is a native North American plant found primarily in Alaska and northern Canada. It is a member of the Salicaceae family, which includes willows and poplars.
Common Names
The common names for Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball include myrtle willow, blue-leaved willow, and bog willow. It is also sometimes referred to as the "whistling willow" because the wind blowing through its narrow twigs can create a high-pitched whistling sound.
Uses
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball has a number of traditional medicinal uses among native cultures. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and has been used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from headaches to menstrual cramps. The plant has also been used as a natural dye, with the twigs and bark producing blue and green hues.
In addition to its medicinal and dyeing properties, myrtle willow is used in horticulture as an ornamental shrub. Its striking blue-gray leaves, narrow growth habit, and tolerance for wet soil make it a popular choice for adding visual interest to wetland habitats and garden ponds.
General Appearance
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball is a small shrub that typically grows to a height of 1-2 meters. Its leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring 2-5 cm in length and 0.5-1 cm in width. The leaves are blue-gray in color and have a distinctive white underside. The shrub produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, hairy fruit capsules in the summer.
The twigs of myrtle willow are slender and flexible, growing at angles that create a distinctive "zig-zag" pattern. These narrow twigs can be easily bent and manipulated, and are sometimes used to make baskets and other woven crafts.
Light requirements
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball typically prefers full sun to partial shade, and will grow best in locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
This plant is well-adapted to cold temperatures and can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). It can also withstand relatively high temperatures, up to about 85°F (29°C), although it will perform best in cooler conditions. In general, this plant prefers a cooler climate with consistent moisture.
Soil requirements
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball is tolerant of a range of soil types, but prefers moist, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). It is known to grow in peaty, sandy, and clay soils, although it performs best in moist, loamy soils. This plant is also known to be tolerant of occasionally wet soils, but will not tolerate waterlogged soil for prolonged periods of time.
Cultivation of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball is a deciduous shrub that requires adequate care and attention for optimal growth and development. This plant species prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic and moderately rich in organic matter. When cultivating this plant species, it is advisable to provide a conducive environment that is rich in sunlight, airflow, and adequate space for growth.
The ideal time to plant Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball is during the fall or early spring when the soil has the right temperature and moisture levels. The plant species is propagated through cuttings or semi-hardwood stem cuttings taken during the active growth phase.
Watering Needs of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball
The watering needs of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball vary depending on the growth phase, environmental conditions, and type of soil. This plant species requires adequate moisture levels during the active growth phase to facilitate optimal growth and development. It is advisable to water the plant species deeply once or twice per week during the growing season.
It is advisable to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot, wilting, and stunted growth. Conversely, under-watering can lead to dehydration, leaf drop, and restricted growth. Therefore, the watering schedule should be adjusted accordingly to suit the environmental conditions and soil type.
Fertilization of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball requires regular fertilization to facilitate optimal growth and development. It is advisable to provide balanced fertilizer that contains adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to facilitate root development, flower formation, and improved foliage. The fertilizer should be applied in spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.
It is advisable to avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to excessive leaf growth, reduced flower formation, and reduced plant resistance to pests and diseases. It is also advisable to carry out regular soil tests to determine the nutrient requirements and pH levels of the soil.
Pruning of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball
Pruning is an essential cultivation practice that enhances the health, vigor, and appearance of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball. It is advisable to prune the plant species during the dormant phase when the plant is not actively growing. Pruning involves removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches to facilitate the growth of healthy shoots.
It is also advisable to prune the plant species periodically to regulate its growth, shape, and size. This plant species responds well to rejuvenation pruning, where old or dead wood is removed to promote new growth. However, excessive pruning can lead to reduced flower formation, stunted growth, and reduced plant resistance to pests and diseases.
Propagation of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball is a shrub that can be propagated through various methods. Some of the common propagation methods include:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is one of the most common methods for Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball. The seeds are usually collected during the spring season and stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be planted. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in pots. It is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist and well-draining for the seeds to germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation through cuttings is another common method for Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball. The cuttings can be taken from the stems of the plant during the dormant season, usually in the fall or winter. The cuttings are then planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they develop roots. This method is often preferred as it allows plants to be produced rapidly without the need to wait for seeds to germinate.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another technique used for propagating Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball. Grafting is usually done in the early spring or late fall, and it involves attaching a scion from a mature plant to a seedling rootstock. This technique requires more skill and expertise than the other methods and is often used for producing clones of desirable varieties.
Overall, propagation of Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting. These methods are all effective, and the choice of technique depends on factors such as availability of materials, time frame, and desired outcomes.
Disease Management
Salix myrtilloides L. var. hypoglauca (Fern.) Ball, commonly known as the blueleaf willow, can be affected by various diseases that can lead to reduced growth and even death of the plant. One common disease affecting this plant is the willow blight, caused by the fungi Cryptosporiopsis curvispora and Marssonina salicicola. This disease usually manifests as black spots on the leaves, which can quickly spread to other parts of the plant. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be pruned and destroyed, and fungicides applied to protect the remaining plant. It's also important to maintain good plant health by providing proper nutrition, watering, and pruning practices to prevent further infections.
Another disease that can affect the blueleaf willow is the willow scab, caused by the fungi Venturia saliciperda. This disease usually manifests as yellowish-green spots on the leaves, which then turn brown and become scabby. The best way to manage this disease is to prune and destroy infected plant parts, apply fungicides to protect the remaining plant, and maintain good plant hygiene by avoiding overhead watering, improving air circulation, and regularly cleaning fallen leaves and debris.
Pest Management
The blueleaf willow is also susceptible to various pests that can damage the plant and reduce its growth and vigor. One common pest is the willow leaf beetle (Plagiodera versicolora), which feeds on the leaves and can cause severe defoliation. To manage this pest, handpicking the beetles and their larvae and destroying them is a common method. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control the beetles, but care should be taken not to harm beneficial insects in the process. Additionally, planting beetle-resistant varieties and maintaining good plant health can help prevent future infestations.
Another pest that can affect the blueleaf willow is the willow sawfly (Nematus ventralis), which feeds on the leaves and can quickly defoliate the plant. To manage this pest, handpicking the larvae and destroying them, or applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide can be effective. Another method is to use physical barriers such as row covers to prevent adult females from laying eggs. Early detection and prompt management can help prevent major infestations and damage to the plant.
