Salix fragilis 'Belgium Red'

Common name: Red crack willow

Description: large tree; 15-20 m (50-60'); saturated red new growth; vigorous and hardy

Ideal conditions: full sun to part shade; natural habitat is along river banks; tolerates a wide range of soils; prune for utility

Coldest Zone: 3 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Without pruning, Salix fragilis does become a large tree capable of finding its way into septic tanks and drainage fields. By controlling the growth, Belgium Red is an good choice for basketry, yielding a beautiful deep red stem colour for the winter garden.

Highly ornamental. There are two ways to grow this plant - pruned or left to grow to its natural form. Read our page about pruning willows to find out more about coppicing and the resulting different plant form with an emphasis on colorful stems for winter interest.

Sizes available: bundle of 10 cuttings

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This picture was taken in October and is of a group of two year old plants that are coppiced in the late winter every year.

Comparison of willow stems and leaves

Lists of various willow uses