What Are the Benefits of the Corkscrew Willow?

Fast Growing Shade Tree

All species of the genus Salix, or willow, are fast growing. Corkscrew willows are no exception, reaching up to 50 feet high, although most specimens will only reach 20 to 30 feet, with a 15- to 20-foot spread. This is not considered a large shade tree, but it makes a great mid-sized shade plant around fountains, pools and ponds. Corkscrew willows can tolerate moist soils, but not waterlogged varieties. Like all members of the willow family, corkscrew willows are considered "messy," often shedding branches and leaves.

Corkscrew willows are extremely adaptable to many harsh situations--including wet or salty soils--and can grow in a wide range of pH levels. This makes the corkscrew willow a nice choice near water sources such as springs and irrigation ditches. The corkscrew willow's salt tolerance makes it a good selection to plant along roadsides treated with salt during the winter. Whether you live in high elevation, Rocky Mountain alkaline soil, or acid-rich Eastern soil, corkscrew willows will tolerate the different pH levels with ease.

Salix matsudana 'Totuosa' has a unique architectural form that adds interest in the winter garden. The branches of corkscrew willows grow upright, almost parallel with the main trunk before turning downward, almost horizontal, with age. The contorted, twisted branches are yellow in youth, turning to grayish-green with maturity. Corkscrew willows are also tolerant of harsh winter conditions and are considered USDA Zone 4 plants. This means they can tolerate winter temperatures down to minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are many benefits to planting a corkscrew willow, including the use of its branches to decorate your home. The branches of Salix matsudana 'Tortuosa' are used by florists in floral arrangements and wreaths. The more twisted the branch, the more interest it will add to your arrangement. Younger, more vigorous branches often display the most twisted growth. You can prune a corkscrew willow heavily in its youth to retrieve large batches of the twisted branches.