Salix fragilis

The Crack Willow gets its name from the way its twigs and branches snap off with a distinct crack. We find it’s a real magnet for wildlife on the nursery; its early catkins provide a vital source of pollen and nectar for bees in spring. The glossy, lance-shaped leaves give the tree a healthy appearance all through summer, shimmering in the breeze.

This is a vigorous, large tree, capable of reaching up to 25 metres in height. It has a fast growth rate and develops a broad, often multi-stemmed, spreading habit. Salix fragilis thrives in full sun and prefers moist or wet soils, making it an excellent choice for stabilising riverbanks. It will tolerate a range of soil types, from light sand to heavy clay.

For the best results, we recommend planting in a spot where it has room to grow. It responds well to pollarding or coppicing if you need to manage its size. This traditional pruning also encourages the growth of flexible stems historically used for fencing and basketry. It’s a superb choice for a wildlife garden or for adding structure to a wet corner of a large garden.