Winter Torch® Coral Bark Willow
Previous Slide
Next Slide
WorryFree Promise
Hardiness
Water Resilience
Disease Resistance
Insect Resistance
Deer Resistance
Special Features
Kid/Pet Friendly
Attracts Wildlife
Low Maintenance
Sustainable
Good for Containers
Winter Torch® Coral Bark Willow
Salix alba var. vitellina
Shrub
Height 5'
Spread 5'
Description
Winter Torch' willow is a fast-growing, low-maintenance shrub prized for fiery orange-red stems that provide brilliant color in bleak winter landscapes. This "set it and forget it" plant thrives in moist, boggy soils with poor drainage where other shrubs struggle. Its spring blooms attract pollinators, while its dense growth provides shelter for birds. Deer avoid it. Its upright, compact habit is ideal for borders, hedges, or privacy screens.
Plant Care
Water
Thrives in all soil types, wet or dry
Fertilizer
In early spring, just as new green growth begins to emerge, use a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer like 10-10-10. Do not fertilize after mid-summer as it encourages tender new growth that will be killed by the first winter frost.
Pruning
Prune in early Spring, just before new growth emerges, as the most intense color appears on new wood; older wood eventually fades to a duller brown.
Seasons of Interest
Spring
Produces small, fuzzy silvery catkins (flowers) that often feature golden-yellow anthers before the leaves emerge. Shortly after, it unfurls bright, lush green leaves.
Summer
Maintains a dense, upright, and compact form with verdant green foliage that provides a refreshing backdrop for summer perennials.
Fall
Foliage transitions to shades of yellow before falling.
Winter
Stems intensify into a vibrant, fiery orange-red, which stands out sharply against snow or drab winter landscapes.
