Common osier (Salix viminalis) is a tree that can grow 3m – 8m tall and 3m – 8m wide. In this growing guide we’ll learn the cultivation details and how to plant Common osier (Salix viminalis).
This plant has several common names including: common osier, augers, basket willow, common withy, hemp willow or velvet osier.
This is a deciduous plant that takes 2-5 years to reach full maturity.
In this article
Plant profile
Common name: common osier, augers, basket willow, common withy, hemp willow, velvet osier
Scientific name: Salix viminalis
Plant type: Trees
Habit: Bushy
Height: 3m – 8m
Spread: 3m – 8m
Foliage: Deciduous
Sunlight: Full Sun
Soil: Clay, Loam, Sand
Moisture: Moist but well drained
Garden type: Coastal, Informal Garden
Planting type: Flower borders and bedding
Seasonal colors
| Season | Stem | Foliage | Flower | Fruit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | ||||
| Summer | ||||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
How to plant Common osier (Salix viminalis) – Nefronus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Trees are essential plants in gardens, large and small, with their sculptural presence.
In terms of design, they add height, structure and interest all year round with attractive flowers, foliage, fruits and trunks.
In addition, they provide home and a food source for birds and other wildlife.
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How to plant
In this section we will learn how to plant Common osier (Salix viminalis), know its needs in terms of soil, watering and sun exposure.
Soil
Common osier (Salix viminalis) is not a demanding plant regarding the type of soil and can grow in clay, loam or sand.
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Clay soil is composed of more than 25 percent clay particles. These particles have a high moisture holding capacity and the soil is heavy to dig and can be waterlogged in winter (dry in summer).
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The loam soil is dark, rich in organic matter but balanced in minerals. It offers the best of all worlds, retaining enough water for the plants, but allowing excess moisture to drain away. This is the most desired type of garden soil, perfect for most plants.
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Sandy soil is light, porous and very easy to drain. It is a soil poor in organic matter and nutrients. It is composed of relatively large mineral particles that allow water to drain quickly.
As for pH, it is a plant that grows ideally in soils with pH acid or neutral.
Regarding drainage, Salix viminalis likes to grow in moist but well drained soil.
Sunlight
Common osier (Salix viminalis) should be grown in full sun places.
Cultivation profiles – Growing Common osier (Salix viminalis) – Jerzy OpioĊa, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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