Weeping Willow

Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica) is the classic waterside shade tree, growing fast to around 13m tall and 12m wide with curtains of fine foliage that sweep to the ground. On a big block, beside a dam or along a rural drive, nothing else creates the same sense of established landscape so quickly. It is a tree for space: generous, thirsty and unsuited to a small suburban yard, which we would rather tell you now.

Why you'll love it

• Shade in a hurry. Weeping willow is among the fastest large trees you can plant, turning an open paddock corner into a shaded sitting spot within a few years.
• Movement no other tree matches. The weeping branches stir in any breeze, and the lime green spring flush is a highlight of the cool climate year.
• Gold in autumn. The narrow leaves turn butter yellow before they drop, a genuine autumn show in southern gardens.
• Thrives where ground stays wet. Boggy corners, dam banks and drainage lines that kill most trees are where a willow does its best work.

Where it works best

Shade tree for acreage and farms. Plant it where stock or people need summer shade and the roots can roam: dam banks, creek flats and paddock corners. Allow at least 12m clear of buildings, septic systems, drains and paving.

Feature planting with room to perform. On a large lawn a single willow becomes the landmark tree of the property, the skirt of foliage sweeping the grass.

Growing Weeping Willow in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun in cool temperate, warm temperate and Mediterranean zones, and fully frost hardy. It handles heat given water; the more moisture in the ground, the better it looks.

Soil. Deep soil with reliable moisture is ideal, and it is one of the few large trees that tolerates wet feet. Ordinary garden soil works if you commit to summer watering.

Water and feed. Water deeply two or three times a week for the first two summers. Beside a dam it then fends for itself; on drier sites it needs summer soaks for life. Feeding is rarely necessary.

Pruning. Prune in winter while dormant, lifting the canopy for clearance and removing crossing limbs. It regrows quickly from hard cuts.

Roots and regulations. Willow roots seek water aggressively and will block drains and lift paving, so distance from services is not optional. Willows are also classed as Weeds of National Significance, with restrictions in several states, so check your council or state rules before planting, particularly near natural waterways.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Weeping Willow in two sizes: a 400mm pot and an advanced 45L tree. The 400mm is a well established young tree that grows away hard in its first season; the 45L arrives with real height for instant effect. As a deciduous tree it may arrive bare or partly bare in the cooler months, which is normal: it will flush strongly in spring.

Trees are packed to travel upright and delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Advanced and large stock is freighted at cost. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• The best trees for shade in farm paddocks
• Browse fast growing shade trees
• Compare our deciduous trees
• More plants with autumn colour

Common questions

How far from the house and pipes should I plant it?

Keep it at least 12m from buildings, septic systems, sewer lines and paving, further if you can. The roots will find any weak joint in old pipework. This is a tree for open ground, not house gardens.

How fast does it grow?

Fast. With water it is capable of a metre or more a year in its early seasons, which is why it is the traditional choice for quick shade on rural properties.

Is it legal to plant a willow in my state?

Willows are Weeds of National Significance and some states and councils restrict planting, especially near waterways. If unsure, check your state's declared plant list or your council before ordering; away from watercourses on private land it remains a widely planted tree.

Western Australia: this plant is listed as an environmental weed in WA, where it escapes from gardens into bushland. We do not recommend it for WA gardens. Please choose a local alternative.