Weeping Goat Willow
Salix caprea Pendula
Pendula
About this plant
Salix caprea 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Goat Willow, is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with gracefully drooping branches. It is admired for its attractive, silvery catkins in early spring and its elegant weeping form. This tree is often used as an ornamental feature in gardens and parks, providing a soft, flowing silhouette and early seasonal interest.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Salix
- Family
- Salicaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Malpighiales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Europe, Western Asia
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated in temperate regions across Europe and North America as an ornamental tree.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 3–7 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -30 °C
- Maximum
- 30 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 4-8
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- moist, well-draining loam or clay
Watering. Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging by ensuring good drainage.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive, weak growth.
Salix caprea 'Pendula' is a moderately easy tree to care for. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade. It can suffer if the soil dries out too much or if planted in heavy clay that doesn't drain well. Regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its shape are recommended.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Layering
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Graceful weeping branches, silvery catkins in early spring, attractive green leaves that turn yellow in autumn.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Non-toxic to humans and pets, safe to plant in family gardens.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Moderate
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Moderate
This plant produces pollen that can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people, especially during its flowering period. Those with pollen allergies may experience sneezing, itchy eyes, or runny nose. To reduce exposure, avoid being near the plant when it is flowering and keep windows closed during high pollen times.
Common problems
Common problems include leaf rust and aphid infestations if conditions are too dry or crowded. Overwatering in poorly draining soil can cause root rot.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental tree for its attractive weeping form and early spring catkins. It can also provide habitat for wildlife.
Notes
Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain the weeping shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. This tree prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional dry spells once established.