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Showing posts from February, 2019

Ram Horn Willow, A Dillon Nature Center Inspiration

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The Ram's Horn Willow, or Salix Babylonia "Crispa",   a fun tree, originated in China Three years ago I stopped in my tracks!   I was in the Playscape at Dillon Nature Center and before me, in a corner, as a tree like nothing I had seen before.   As soon as I arrived home, I shot an email to then, Director Mary Clark, and one year later, I was planting one in my yard.   Ram's Horn is hardy to Zone 6, needs sun, is heat and wind tolerant. Like all willows, the tree loves moist soil, so placement close to a sprinkler head is working well for me. I t is non-evasive, that is a huge plus!     Ram's Horn is easily spotted by it's curled and spiraled leaves, from which the name originates.   It reminds me of the curled ribbon that adorned gifts in my youth. This tree is a vigorous grower, which can reach 30' in time, or may be carefully pruned and kept at shrub size.   Propagation is by seeds, it is self fertile, or can be done by cu