Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' – A Striking, Twisted Willow with Unique Form and Dramatic Appeal
Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa', commonly known as the Twisted Willow, is an ornamental tree renowned for its unique and striking twisted branches and foliage. This deciduous tree typically reaches a height of 3 to 4 metres (10 to 13 feet), making it perfect for smaller gardens, water features, or as a specimen tree. The twisted, contorted branches and stems create a dramatic, sculptural effect that adds an architectural element to the landscape. In spring, delicate catkins appear, followed by long, slender leaves that dance in the wind, further enhancing its whimsical appearance. Its distinctive form and vibrant green foliage make it a conversation piece in any garden.
Why Grow Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa'?
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Unique Twisted Form – The most notable feature of the Twisted Willow is its dramatic, twisted branches and stems, which give the tree a sculptural, almost bonsai-like appearance. This distinctive form makes it a standout in the garden, offering visual interest even when the tree is bare in winter.
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Fast-Growing – Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' is a fast-growing tree, allowing it to establish quickly in the landscape and provide immediate impact. It thrives in a variety of conditions, making it ideal for gardeners seeking quick results.
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Delicate Spring Catkins – In early spring, the tree produces soft, silvery catkins that add a touch of elegance before the leaves emerge. These catkins are a valuable nectar source for early-season pollinators like bees, adding a wildlife-friendly element to your garden.
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Low Maintenance – This variety of willow is hardy, easy to grow, and relatively low-maintenance. Once established, it requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners looking for a striking, yet low-effort tree.
Planting & Care Guide
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Position: Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth, plant it in a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The tree prefers moist conditions and is perfect for planting near ponds, streams, or wet areas, though it can adapt to drier spots once established.
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Soil: This willow variety is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate waterlogged conditions, making it ideal for planting near water features. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil, but it is tolerant of a variety of pH levels.
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Watering: While Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' is drought-tolerant once established, it grows best with consistent moisture. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist. Planting near water or in areas that retain moisture will help the tree flourish.
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Maintenance:
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Pruning: This tree benefits from regular pruning to maintain its unique form and to remove any dead or damaged growth. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cutting back some of the twisted branches can help encourage fresh growth and maintain the tree’s sculptural appearance.
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Feeding: Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' is a relatively low-maintenance tree and doesn’t require heavy fertilisation. However, a light application of balanced fertiliser in early spring can promote healthy growth, especially in poor or sandy soils.
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Mulching: Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the roots cool. Be sure to leave a gap around the stem to prevent rot.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' is a versatile tree that pairs beautifully with a variety of plants. Its unique form and vibrant green leaves make it an eye-catching focal point in any garden.
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Water Garden Combinations – The Twisted Willow is ideal for planting near ponds, streams, or water features, where its form can be reflected in the water. Combine it with water-loving plants such as Japanese Iris, Hostas, or Astilbe, which will complement its sculptural shape and thrive in similar conditions.
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Contrasting Foliage – For a striking contrast, pair Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' with plants that have bold, colourful foliage or flowers. Plant it alongside the vibrant yellow or orange leaves of Croton, or combine it with the deep purple hues of Heuchera, which will provide a dramatic contrast to the soft green leaves of the willow.
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Spring Flowers – In the early spring, when the willow’s catkins appear, pair it with spring-blooming bulbs like Tulips, Daffodils, or Hyacinths for a burst of colour. The delicate catkins of the Twisted Willow will enhance the beauty of these early blooms and create a seasonal garden display.
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Wildlife-Friendly Plantings – The willow’s catkins attract pollinators like bees, making it a valuable addition to a wildlife garden. For a pollinator-friendly planting scheme, combine it with other flowering plants such as Lavender, Echinacea, or Monarda, which provide nectar for bees and butterflies.
Salix babylonica 'Tortuosa' is a tree that brings visual drama, unique texture, and seasonal beauty to your landscape. With its twisted branches, fragrant catkins, and quick growth, it makes a statement wherever it’s planted—whether as a specimen tree, in a water garden, or in combination with other plants to create a stunning, diverse planting scheme.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
