Hooker's Willow

Prefers consistently moist to wet soil, and can withstand prolonged flooding and saturated conditions that would kill most other woody plants. Water regularly during establishment, and avoid letting the root ball dry out completely even in mature specimens.

Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and catkin production. It can tolerate partial shade, but growth will be sparser and it will produce fewer flowers.

Adapted to a wide range of soil types, including sandy dune soils, heavy clay, and peaty wetland substrates, with a preferred pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. It tolerates high salinity and poorly drained, anaerobic soils common in coastal and riparian zones.

Generally does not require supplemental fertilization in its native habitat, as it is adapted to low-nutrient wet soils. If grown in nutrient-poor upland sites, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support new growth.

Hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9, tolerating winter temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C) and high summer coastal heat with adequate moisture. It is highly resistant to salt spray and cold coastal winds, making it ideal for exposed shoreline plantings.

Prune in late winter or early spring while the plant is dormant to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and to maintain a desired shape. It tolerates heavy coppicing, and can be cut back to near ground level every 2-3 years to encourage dense, bushy growth for erosion control or wildlife cover.

Most easily propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late winter, which root readily when planted directly in moist soil without rooting hormone. It can also be grown from seed, but seeds remain viable for only a few weeks after ripening in late spring and require constant moisture to germinate.

Thrives in the moderate to high humidity of its native coastal and riparian habitats, tolerating humidity levels between 50% and 80%. It can adapt to lower humidity conditions if provided with consistent soil moisture, but may experience leaf browning at the edges in very dry environments.

Rarely grown in containers, as its extensive, fast-growing root system quickly outgrows pots and it prefers unrestricted root access to wet soil. If grown temporarily in a container, repot annually in early spring into a larger pot with a loamy, moisture-retentive soil mix, and plant out in the landscape as soon as possible.