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If your garden doesn't have room for a large willow, you still don't have to do without this beautiful tree species. In the cultivated form of a standard tree, the harlequin willow fits on any terrace or balcony, no matter how small. On this page you will find a lot more information about the special breeding form as well as helpful tips for care.
Hakuro Nishiki
Hakuro Nishiki is a Japanese breed of the genus Salix Integra. In Germany it is the most popular variety of harlequin willows, which can sometimes be attributed to its low stature. Hakuro Nishiki is available both as a shrub and as a standard. The latter variant is a refined form. Both species reach a maximum height of around three meters.
Hakuro Nishiki as a standard
If Hakuro Nishiki was bred as a standard, it only grows slightly in height. However, over the years it has broadened. You can clearly see how the girth of the trunk increases.
Harlequin willows are very popular because of their attractive appearance. For one thing, they have lush green foliage. On the other hand, the ornamental willows impress with their flowers, which are initially white and later appear conspicuously pink. This look is particularly beautiful if you cut the crown into a spherical shape. Incidentally, this is the common form of the Hakuro Nishiki as a standard.
Cut harlequin willow as a standard
In order for the harlequin willow to retain its unique appearance as a standard, you should cut back several times a year. Topiary trimmings are needed once the branches in the crown branch out too much. Regular thinning out is important for sufficient air circulation and sufficient exposure to light. In this way you also promote new growth. Make a radical cut at least once a year. You can cut back the high stem quite a bit. After a short time, the plant shoots up again. Here are some tips for cutting the harlequin willow as a standard:
- Never cut into the grafted trunk.
- Always pay attention to the preservation of the spherical shape. Once this has grown together, it is hardly possible to repair it.
- In addition, deadwood forms in the crown, which leads to bare spots.
- The first cut is even possible in the second year.
- It is best to cut the high trunk in the spring before the leaves sprout.
- To maintain the spherical shape, touch-ups are recommended in the summer months.