Peking Willow
Salix babylonica · Weeping WillowUSDA | Grow Zone
4-8Outdoors all year in zones 4 to 8. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 40°F.
- Light
- Full sun, 6-8 hours
- Water
- Consistently moist soil
- Humidity
- Moderate to high
- Temperature
- 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Fast
- Mature size
- 30-50 ft tall
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets
The Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica) is a stunning tree known for its graceful, drooping branches and lush foliage. Native to China, it thrives near water and is cherished for its beauty and shade, making it a popular choice in gardens and parks.
Ask Vesper about Peking Willow
Ideal temperature
60-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 40°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 30-50 ft tall
- Plant apart
- 120-180 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Weeping Willows prefer consistently moist soil, especially during the growing season.
Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil remains damp but not waterlogged. In hotter months, increase frequency to twice a week. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and root rot, while under-watering can cause wilting and leaf drop.
Light
This plant thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Ideal placement includes areas with plenty of sunlight, such as near water bodies or open fields. While it can tolerate partial shade, reduced light can hinder growth and vigor.
Soil
Weeping Willows prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
They benefit from a mix that retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain away. A potting mix that includes peat moss, perlite, and compost is recommended for container growth.
Humidity
These trees thrive in moderate to high humidity levels.
To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby. Signs of low humidity stress include browning leaf tips and leaf drop.
Temperature
Weeping Willows prefer temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) and can tolerate hardiness zones 4-8.
They are somewhat cold-hardy but may suffer in extreme heat or frost. Protect young trees from harsh winter conditions.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 during the growing season.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks from spring to early fall. Signs of nutrient deficiency include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
Pruning
Prune Weeping Willows in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove dead or damaged branches and shape the tree as desired. Regular deadheading is not necessary, but removing suckers can help maintain shape.
Repotting
Repot Weeping Willows every 2-3 years or when the roots become pot-bound.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs that repotting is needed include roots growing out of the drainage holes and stunted growth. Carefully remove the plant, trim any damaged roots, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Weeping Willows can be propagated through stem cuttings.
Take cuttings in late winter or early spring, ensuring they are at least 12 inches long. Place the cuttings in water or moist soil, keeping them in a warm, bright location until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Typically caused by over-watering or nutrient deficiency.
How to fix it
Ensure proper drainage and adjust watering frequency. Fertilize if nutrient deficiency is suspected.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Can occur due to stress from drought or sudden temperature changes.
How to fix it
Maintain consistent moisture and protect the tree from extreme temperatures.
Browning leaf tips
Why it happens
Often a sign of low humidity or underwatering.
How to fix it
Increase humidity through misting or a humidifier and ensure regular watering.
Root rot
Why it happens
Caused by overly saturated soil and poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and improve soil drainage. Remove affected roots if necessary.
Pests (aphids, spider mites)
Why it happens
Common pests that can infest Weeping Willows, especially in dry conditions.
How to fix it
Inspect regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, focus on fertilizing your Weeping Willow as new growth begins. Prune any dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth.
Summer
During summer, ensure consistent watering, especially in hot weather. Monitor for pests and increase humidity if necessary.
Fall
In fall, reduce watering as the tree prepares for dormancy. Clean up fallen leaves to prevent pests and diseases.
Winter
In winter, protect young trees from extreme cold and frost. Avoid heavy pruning during this time, as the tree is dormant.
Toxicity & Safety
Weeping Willows are non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Good to know
Why are my Weeping Willow's leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a Weeping Willow can indicate over-watering or a nutrient deficiency. Check the soil moisture and consider fertilizing if necessary.
How often should I water my Weeping Willow?
Water your Weeping Willow deeply once a week, increasing to twice a week during hot weather. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but not soggy.
What type of soil is best for Weeping Willows?
Weeping Willows thrive in well-draining loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix that retains moisture while allowing drainage is ideal.
How do I propagate a Weeping Willow?
Propagate Weeping Willows through stem cuttings taken in late winter or early spring. Place cuttings in water or moist soil until roots develop.
When is the best time to prune my Weeping Willow?
The best time to prune Weeping Willows is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This helps maintain shape and remove any dead branches.
What pests should I watch for on my Weeping Willow?
Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Regular inspections and treatments with insecticidal soap can help manage infestations.
How fast does a Weeping Willow grow?
Weeping Willows are known for their fast growth rate, often reaching heights of 30-50 feet within a few years under optimal conditions.
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