Overview of Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso
Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso, commonly known as the Japanese willow, is a plant species belonging to the family Salicaceae. The plant is native to Japan and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental and medicinal value.
General Appearance
Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 6 meters tall. The plant has densely clustered branches that form a large, spreading crown. The bark is smooth and gray in color, with distinct white lenticels. The leaves are lanceolate, glossy green on the upper surface, and pale green underneath. The branches are flexible and easy to bend, making them ideal for weaving and basket-making. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and are borne in catkins.
Uses
Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes in traditional Japanese medicine. The leaves and bark of the plant have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. The flexible branches of the plant are used for weaving baskets and other handicrafts.
In summary, Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso is an evergreen shrub with a spreading crown that is widely cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The plant is native to Japan, and its leaves and bark have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. The flexible branches of the plant are used for weaving baskets and other handicrafts.
Light Requirements
Salix pseudolapponum var. subincurva prefers to grow in full sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can cause stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a variety of temperatures. However, it prefers cooler climates with temperatures ranging between 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius, but prolonged exposure to such temperatures can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in soils that are moist and well-drained. It can tolerate acidic, neutral, or slightly alkaline soils. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Additionally, the plant can grow in a range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso, commonly known as the curly willow, is a shrub that requires moist soil and partial shade for its proper growth. It can be propagated by seed and stem cuttings. While sowing seeds, ensure that they are soaked overnight in water. The stem cutting method is suitable for winter when the plant is dormant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and planted in well-draining soil.Watering Needs
The curly willow requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist. Watering should be done deeply to ensure the water reaches the roots. It is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil as it may lead to root rot. During hot weather, the plant may require watering more frequently. Mulching also helps to retain soil moisture.Fertilization
The curly willow will require fertilization once every year during early spring. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Alternatively, you can use compost or well-rotted manure to fertilize the plant. Avoid overfertilization as it may damage the plant.Pruning
Pruning the curly willow is best done during late winter or early spring. Remove any dead, diseased or damaged parts of the plant, including crossing branches. Curly willows respond well to coppicing, where the entire plant is cut down to the ground level. This method results in vigorous growth, ideal for ornamental purposes. Pruning also promotes bushier growth and maintains the shape of the plant.Propagation Methods for Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso
Propagation is an important process for the growth of Salix pseudolapponum von Seem. var. subincurva E.H. Kelso, commonly known as curly willow. Several propagation methods are available for this plant, and they are:
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is the most common method for propagating curly willow. It involves using cuttings from the mature plant and rooting them in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants during their dormant phase. The cuttings should then be placed in the rooting hormone, and they should be kept in a warm, moist environment until rooted.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a slower method of propagation and is not commonly used for curly willow due to its low germination rate. However, it is an effective way to propagate the plant when done correctly. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, kept moist, and exposed to bright light. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20 to 22°C.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another way to propagate curly willow. It involves dividing an established plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is best done in the spring when the plant is starting to grow. The plant should be lifted from the ground, and the root system should be carefully separated into equal parts. The divided parts should then be replanted in suitable soil and watered thoroughly.
Disease Management
Salix pseudolapponum var. subincurva is susceptible to several fungal diseases and bacterial infections:
- Canker Diseases: These are fungal diseases that can cause cankers or dead areas on the stems of the plant. They are mainly caused by the species Cryphonectria parasitica, Botryosphaeria sp., and Nectria sp. To control canker diseases, it is recommended to prune and remove infected branches and stems. Fungicides can also be applied to protect the tree from further infections.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal infection that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It is mainly caused by the species Marssonina salicicola. To control leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and spray the plant with fungicides. Good sanitation practices such as removing fallen leaves can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial infection that causes blackened or watery spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. It is mainly caused by the species Pseudomonas syringae pv. To control bacterial blight, it is recommended to prune and remove infected branches and stems. Copper-based fungicides can also be applied to protect the plant from further infections.
Pest Management
Salix pseudolapponum var. subincurva is also susceptible to various pests:
- Aphids: These are small, sucking insects that can damage the leaves of the plant by draining sap from them. They are attracted to new growth and can cause the leaves to curl or become distorted. To control aphids, it is recommended to prune and remove infected branches and leaves, as well as to spray the plant with insecticides.
- Scales: These are small, oval-shaped insects that can be found on the stems and leaves of the plant. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and leaf drop. To control scales, it is recommended to prune and remove infected branches and leaves, as well as to spray the plant with insecticides.
- Caterpillars: These are the larval stage of moths that can feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To control caterpillars, it is recommended to prune and remove infected branches and leaves, as well as to spray the plant with insecticides.
