Salix purpurea (Eugenii)
z. 3 – 10 ht. 8′ – 10′ / 16′ (coppiced/tree form)
‘Outstandingly ornamental’ hardy willow grown for the yearly 6′ – 8′ ‘rods’ or stems used in basketry. Beautiful purple catkins are produced in late winter and early spring. Named after the wife of Napoleon III, the Empress Eugenie. Makes a stunning hedge or screen. Cut back hard every 3 years if growing the tree form. Has an upright habit and a vigorous growth rate. (Eugenii) is one of the best basket willows around. Highly recommended!
Coppice (prune) yearly to produce the long, straight ‘rods’ used for basket weaving. Coppice only every second or third year to produce larger and stronger wood for wattle fencing.
As all the purpureas have extremely bitter leaves, this may make them relatively deer-resistant.
All Willows are 1-gal. size
