Salix alba 'Chermesina', commonly known as Scarlet Willow, is a striking deciduous tree renowned for its vibrant orange-red stems, particularly pronounced in the winter months. This eye-catching feature makes it a popular choice for adding a splash of colour to winter gardens. The leaves of 'Chermesina' are narrow, lanceolate, and display a silvery-green hue, contributing to the tree's ornamental appeal throughout the growing season. During the spring, this willow produces small, yellow catkins that offer a subtle yet charming touch to its overall appearance.

In terms of growth, Salix alba 'Chermesina' typically reaches a mature height of 12 to 18 meters, with a similar spread, forming a large, spreading canopy. Its rapid growth rate makes it an excellent candidate for those looking to quickly establish a striking presence in their landscape. The tree thrives in moist, well-drained soils, and while it is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, it prefers conditions that are rich in organic matter. 'Chermesina' is best suited to full sun to partial shade environments, where it can receive ample sunlight to support its vigorous growth and vibrant stem coloration.

Notable for its hardiness, Salix alba 'Chermesina' is resilient in various climates and can withstand wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for planting near water bodies or in areas prone to flooding. Its ability to tolerate pruning also makes it ideal for use in coppicing or pollarding, allowing gardeners to maintain its size and encourage the growth of new, colourful stems. With its unique aesthetic attributes and adaptability, Scarlet Willow is a versatile addition to any garden or landscape design.

Tree Specs

• Common Name: Scarlet Willow
• Botanical Name: Salix alba 'Chermesina'
• Mature Height: 12-18m
• Key Features: 
  
  • Bark Interest
  • Year-round Interest
  • Quick growing