How to Grow and Care for a Flamingo Tree
Introduction
The flamingo tree (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’) is a popular dwarf willow tree that is known for its beautiful variegated foliage. In spring, the leaves emerge with a mix of green, white, and flamingo-pink tips. The leaves fade to green in summer and turn coral-orange in autumn, revealing the vibrant stems. Before the new leaves appear in spring, the tree produces yellow catkins.
Choosing the Right Location
Flamingo trees prefer moist but well-drained soil and full sun or dappled shade. They can also be grown in pots as long as they are kept well-watered.
Planting Your Flamingo Tree
- Dig a hole that is the same depth as the rootball and twice as wide.
- Place the rootball in the hole and fill in the space around it with soil.
- Water the tree deeply and mulch around the base to retain moisture.
Caring for Your Flamingo Tree
Watering and Feeding
- Water flamingo trees growing in the ground during dry spells.
- Flamingo trees in pots should be kept moist at all times.
- Fertilize your flamingo tree in spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Mulch around the tree in spring with well-rotted manure or garden compost to help retain moisture.
Pruning
- Prune your flamingo tree in late winter to encourage lush foliage growth.
- Trim back about one-third of the growth and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased shoots.
- Also, trim away any shoots that are sprouting from the grafted stem.
- You can lightly trim again in summer to encourage more fresh pink growth.
Propagation
Flamingo trees can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in spring and summer or hardwood cuttings in autumn and winter.
Common Problems
- Poor leaf color in spring: This may be due to lack of sun.
- Brown leaves: This could be due to wind or sun damage, or lack of water.
- Green leaves on the stem of standard trees: These are from the willow that the top was grafted onto and should be trimmed off.
- Willow aphids: These do not harm the plant, but they can produce honeydew that attracts sooty mold.
- Rust: This appears as yellow patches on the tops of the leaves and orange pustules on the undersides.
- Canker: This can cause leafless shoots and distorted bark.
- Willow anthracnose: This causes black or brown spots and lesions on the leaves and stems.
- Honey fungus: This can attack plants growing in the soil.
Tips for Growing Flamingo Trees in Different Climates
- In cold climates, flamingo trees should be planted in a sheltered location and mulched heavily in winter.
- In hot climates, flamingo trees should be protected from the sun during the hottest part of the day and watered regularly.
Choosing the Right Flamingo Tree for Your Needs
There are many different varieties of flamingo trees available, so it is important to choose one that is right for your needs. Consider the size, shape, and color of the tree, as well as its hardiness in your climate.
Conclusion
Flamingo trees are beautiful and easy-to-care-for trees that can add a touch of color and interest to any garden. By following the tips in this article, you can grow a healthy and vibrant flamingo tree that will thrive for years to come.
