
About the Corkscrew Willow Tree
- Size and Growth. Corkscrew willows are fast growing and reach a height of about 30 feet. Like other willows, they prefer moist soil.
- Care. Corkscrew willows are hardy from zones 4 through 8. It isn't particularly fussy about its soil and can grow equally as well in clay, loam or sand.
- Pests. Gypsy moths remain a problem for the corkscrew willow. ...
What are the characteristics of a corkscrew willow tree?
Mature limbs sport grayish-brown bark with ridges. Corkscrew willows produce an upright, oval growth habit and have a mature height of 20-to-40 feet with a spread of 10-to-30 feet. Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4b through 8a, corkscrew willows grow best in moist areas, although they will tolerate some drought.
How big does a willow tree grow?
• Hardy and pest free. The Corkscrew Willow grows quickly to a height of 20 to 30 feet and 10 to 15 feet across. It is an easy and fast growing tree that will grow in any kind of soil, in full sun or partial-shade, even in damp areas, such as the banks of rivers and streams, or by ponds.
What zone do Corkscrew Willows grow in?
Hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4b through 8a, corkscrew willows grow best in moist areas, although they will tolerate some drought. Not picky when it comes to soil, these deciduous trees grow well in clay, sandy or loamy soils with acidic or alkaline pH levels.
How do I care for a corkscrew willow tree?
For the most part, corkscrew willow care is minimal, but the tree likes moisture. Water regularly during the first year, then water generously during periods of hot, dry weather. A 2 to 3 inch (5-8 cm.) layer of mulch will help keep the soil moist, helps keep weeds in check, and protect the trunk from damage by weed trimmers and lawnmowers.

How fast do corkscrew willows grow?
2 feet per yearThese Willows thrive in full sun to part shade conditions. How Fast Does This Willow Grow? A growth rate of more than 2 feet per year to a height of 20-30 feet and 15-20 feet wide at maturity.
Can I keep a corkscrew willow small?
Left to its own devices, corkscrew willow will grow into a small tree from 20' to 30' high, but it can be heavily pruned and maintained as a smaller shrub without harming the plant.
Are corkscrew willows good trees?
Unfortunately, although corkscrew willow is a fast-growing tree, it isn't long lived and tends to be susceptible to breakage and insect problems. In spite of its downfalls, growing a curly willow tree is a worthy endeavor, and with proper care, you'll enjoy this fascinating tree for several years.
Are corkscrew willow roots invasive?
The corkscrew willow has a shorter spread than the weeping willow (15 to 20 feet compared to a height of 25 to 35 feet) and its roots are less invasive, although they may still become a problem as the tree ages.
Should I prune corkscrew willow?
Prune the corkscrew willow tree only as needed during the growing season, as this tree is highly susceptible to a host of diseases and pests. Prune the tree during this period only to maintain health and safety. Remove diseased branches and stems as they appear to reduce the potential for severe infections.
How long do corkscrew willows live?
Moist soil and ample space are prerequisites, as it is tall and easily reaches a spread of 20 feet, sometimes even more. It is a fast-growing tree but that comes with a caveat—corkscrew willow is short-lived. Expect to replace it within 15 to 20 years. In ideal conditions it might last 30 years.
How long does a curly willow live?
10 to 15 yearsThe curly willow grows rapidly, which makes it ideal for areas where you want to have the appearance of a mature tree right away. However, this tree has a relatively short life span of 10 to 15 years and eventually might have to be replaced.
Do corkscrew willows lose their leaves?
Corkscrew Willow Diseases Symptoms include black lesions that start on the leaves and work their way down to the branches, causing the tree to lose its leaves. The tree may eventually die after several seasons.
How far do curly willow roots grow?
25-30 feetLike most willows, they grow about 24 inches a year, reaching a mature height of 25-30 feet with a spread of 15-20 feet. They prefer moist soil and their roots stay shallow and near the surface.
How far should a willow tree be from a house?
50 feet awayHow far should I plant one from my house? Make sure to plant your weeping willow at least 50 feet away from your house.
How do you stop a willow tree from growing?
If you shorten the branches, always cut just beyond a leaf bud or twig. Don't allow branches to grow on the lower part of the tree. If you catch new growth soon enough, you can stop it by pinching it off or rubbing it with your fingers. Willow trees grow quickly, and this makes them susceptible to wind breakage.
Are willow trees messy?
Weeping willows are often thought of as messy trees. The plant continually sheds leaves and branches. Normal leaf-and-branch shedding differs from drought-induced loss, according to the University of Florida Extension. Choosing a tree for the home landscape requires careful planning.
Can curly willow be grown indoors?
A: Curly willow (Salix matsudana torulosa) is also known as corkscrew willow. The corkscrew willow is neither a houseplant nor does it make a good outdoor, container plant. It is a deciduous landscape tree of medium size which can reach a height of 30 feet with a 20-foot spread.
How long does a curly willow live?
10 to 15 yearsThe curly willow grows rapidly, which makes it ideal for areas where you want to have the appearance of a mature tree right away. However, this tree has a relatively short life span of 10 to 15 years and eventually might have to be replaced.
How do you make a curly willow bonsai tree?
4:346:46Corkscrew Willow bonsai - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo relatively easy job not a whole lot of thought that has to go into something like that is mainlyMoreSo relatively easy job not a whole lot of thought that has to go into something like that is mainly just pulling it out of one pot trimming the excess roots off and then putting it in a new pot.
How long do curly willow branches last?
They are lovely trees, but they do have a short lifespan. However, a healthy one should be good for at least 30 years or more, so something else is probably happening to yours.
How big are corkscrew willow trees?
Individual leaves reach 3-to-5 inches in length and 1/2-inch wide and have serrated edges. The green leaves turn yellow in the fall.
What is a Corkscrew willow?
Corkscrew willows (Salix matsudana "Tortuosa") add personality to a landscape with their curly-cue leaves and twisted branches. The leaves provide a quirky texture during the spring and summer and then fall away to allow the distorted branches to create lines against fall and winter sky.
What type of soil do corkscrew willows like?
Not picky when it comes to soil, these deciduous trees grow well in clay, sandy or loamy soils with acidic or alkaline pH levels.
What causes corkscrew willow to be ragged?
This problem, combined with their short life span, disqualifies the corkscrew willow for use as street trees. Aphids, gypsy moths, lace bugs and willow leaf beetles feed on the tree's leaves, causing discoloration and a ragged appearance .
Do corkscrew willows need salt?
Corkscrew willows do require fast-draining soils since standing water or sogginess cause their roots to rot. A site that receives full to partial sunlight is best. Corkscrew willows tolerate salty soils and salt spray, making them a fitting choice for coastal plantings.
How tall is a corkscrew willow?
The Corkscrew Willow grows quickly to a height of 20 to 30 feet and 10 to 15 feet across . It is an easy and fast growing tree that will grow in any kind of soil, in full sun or partial-shade, even in damp areas, such as the banks of rivers and streams, or by ponds. This tree will grow from zone 4 to zone 8.
Where do corkscrew willows grow?
The Corkscrew Willow is a special form of the Chinese Willow ( Salix matsudana ). This tree, as you might guess, grows wild in northern China and is one of around 400 types of Willows found in all countries of the Northern Hemisphere. The wild form of this plant is rarely seen outside China, but the twisted form ( Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’), which is the Corkscrew Willow, was brought to America in 1923 by the famous Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University and distributed across the country to become a favorite tree of all gardeners.
When was Corkscrew Willow introduced to America?
The wild form of this plant is rarely seen outside China, but the twisted form ( Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’), which is the Corkscrew Willow, was brought to America in 1923 by the famous Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University and distributed across the country to become a favorite tree of all gardeners.
How long are the leaves on a sage tree?
The leaves are 2 to 4 inches long, narrow, spear-shaped and twisted. They are an attractive yellow-green in spring, turning to a fresh, light-green all summer and then making a lovely display in fall when the whole tree turns a bright, clear yellow.
How tall does a sage tree get?
Growth Rate and Appearance. This tree will quickly grow 20 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, with a semi-upright habit. The stems grow upright at a narrow angle to the main trunk, before gracefully curving over to a horizontal position as they mature.
How long does it take for a magic tree to ship?
Orders typically ship out within 2 business days. You will receive email notifications along the way on the progress of your order, as well as tracking information to track your plants all the way to their new home!
Can corkscrew be grown in a small garden?
Growing Corkscrew Willows. The Corkscrew is quite small for a Willow tree and it does not have the same large root system that other willows do. Of all the willows it best suited for smaller gardens and since it can be pruned very hard if needed, its growth can be controlled for almost any space.
What is a corkscrew willow?
Also known as curly willow or tortured willow, corkscrew willow ( Salix matsudana ‘Tortusa’) is easy to identify by its long, graceful leaves and curly, contorted branches, which become especially noticeable during the winter .
What zone is curly willow?
Before growing this tree, you should know where to plant curly willow. Corkscrew willow is suitable for growing in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Can a curly willow tree grow in shade?
Curly willow isn’t fussy about soil and adapts to clay, loam, or sand. Similarly, it tolerates either sun or partial shade. However, ideal conditions for this tree are well-drained, moist soil and full sunlight.
Is a corkscrew willow tree long lived?
Unfortunately, although corkscrew willow is a fast-growing tree, it isn’t long lived and tends to be susceptible to breakage and insect problems. In spite of its downfalls, growing a curly willow tree is a worthy endeavor, and with proper care, you’ll enjoy this fascinating tree for several years.
How tall can a corkscrew grow?
The branches and twigs are thin, weak, and break easily. Twigs are known for being twisted, gnarled, and deformed. A mature corkscrew can grow to about 20 – 40 feet high. The spread of a mature tree can cover about 15-30 feet.
What is a corkscrew willow?
Welcome to the family of willow trees―there are several species of willows―of which, the corkscrew willow is unique in its own right. Also known as the curly willow or salix matsudana, or Koidzumi or dragon’s claw, it is quite popular due to its gnarled and twisted branches. Originally a native of North Asia, it looks most beautiful in winter and is known to be a favorite among bonsai lovers and practitioners.
Why do corkscrew willows need care?
However, like any other plant, this tree also needs its share of attention and care, mostly because it is prone to pest infestation and diseases . We have enlisted certain features of the corkscrew willow, its uses, needs, and the common diseases affecting this tree.
How far can a mature tree spread?
The spread of a mature tree can cover about 15-30 feet. It is known to possess a fast growth rate and the United States Department of Agriculture classifies it in the hardiness zones of 4b to 8a.
Is corkscrew willow a good tree?
If you are looking for a unique tree that will beautify your garden, then planting corkscrew willows is a good option . We, at Gardenerdy, have enlisted some interesting facts about the corkscrew willow tree. If you are looking for a unique tree that will beautify your garden, then planting corkscrew willows is a good option.
Can corkscrew trees survive in full sun?
Being a fairly hardy tree, the corkscrew can survive in full or partial sunlight. It can also survive in any soil type, but preferably moist soil. Ensure that the tree is watered regularly. Plant it away from power lines, water lines, and sidewalks―the roots grow very quickly and spread near the surface. It is very easy to propagate ...
Does corkscrew willow last?
However, on the flip side, this tree does not last for many years. Its flowers are inconspicuous and not very showy, while its fruits are dry and not noteworthy. The corkscrew willow has green foliage which turns yellow in fall.
Corkscrew willow and the size of it's roots
A friend offered me a cutting from his corkscrew willow. I'm tempted to take it but I am having a hard time getting info on it's root system. I want to plant this tree in my front yard, which is not large and is where all water, sewage, yadda yadda are located underground.
Comments (3)
Just pollard it every spring. If kept small, it won't have a huge massive root system. Also, corkscrew looks best cut back each year anyways, the vigorous growth is more contorted.
