The "Dragon's Claw" or "Corkscrew" Willow - Salix matsudana - is a cultivar of the Chinese (Babylon) Willow. This cultivar grows very fast from cuttings made from the youngest (and often most curly) shoots. It is considered medium to large in size and is a deciduous tree that grows in a primarily upright fashion. Chinese Willow's have a relatively short lifespan, estimated between 40-75 years in the wild. The Chinese Willow is a Native of Northeastern China. It has been planted heavily as an ornamental in the United States, Europe and Australia, so is seen often outisde of it's native area.
Photo 1 & 2 Image Citations: Tom DeGomez, University of Arizona, Bugwood.org
The leaves of this variety come out early in the Spring and often hold on well into December. Even in Winter when the tree is bare the interest of the curls and curves in the branches remain, making it a beautiful year round addition to any landscape. The leaves are green in color and when flattened look similar to the more common types of Willow (Weeping, Babylon and Coastal). The female and male flowers appear as Catkins and are always on different trees. The branches are often used in floral arrangements or even as bonsai because of their unique curling habits.
The Corkscrew Willow is available at most major nursery's and makes a lovely addition to any landscape. It may also be sold as a Dragon's Claw Willow or Curly Willow.
Learn more about tree varieties www.ArundelTreeService.com or www.MeetaTree.com
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