


Black Willow Stakes
Fast growth and easy establishment
Low maintenance and hardy
Excellent for erosion control
Thrives in
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Black Willow Live Stakes - Salix nigra
Majestically towering over streambanks and lakes, Black Willow Live Stakes are a steadfast natural companion of flood-prone areas. This stately tree, extending upwards of 60 feet upon maturity, is native to North America and most commonly decorates the dampest areas of the east coast. While this tree's height can sound intimidating, the delicate appearance of its slender leaves blowing in the wind grants a profound sense of calm. When grown from live stake cuttings, its roots rapidly take hold and thrive in soggy soil, swiftly providing an effective solution to harmful erosion.
Plant Details - Black Willow Live Stakes
Family: Salicaceae
Light Requirement: Full Sun – Partial Shade
Water Needs: High
Height: 30-60 ft.
Spread: 20-30 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Flower Color: Subtle yellow catkins
Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators during bloom, provides shelter & nesting materials for wildlife
This incredibly fast-growing tree thrives in the wettest soils of a landscape. Not only can it comfortably handle eroding, waterlogged soil, but it holds a unique preference for these tough conditions - it has earned the common nickname of ‘Swamp Willow’ for this very reason! It has long, narrow leaves (around 5 inches long) that surround pollen-producing catkins in the early spring. While the flowering structures are rather inconspicuous, they give off a pleasant soft fragrance that attracts nature’s finest pollinators.
Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Black Willow Live Stakes
Black Willow Live Stakes have been used for thousands of years by humans, from medicinal applications to purposeful landscape plantings. As a tree that thrives in incredibly wet conditions, it is an ideal choice for problem areas to prevent dangerous erosion. This tree forms strong, extensive root systems that bind soil underground, and it produces them very quickly. Live stake cuttings are the superior form of this tree to plant in due to its quick, effective impact. These live stakes are harvested while dormant, so that the stored energy in the cuttings are immediately ready to go towards Black Willow’s powerful root system.
Noteworthy Characteristics
The long leaves of Black Willow are incredibly memorable as they gracefully move in the breeze, and they also serve an important purpose: Black Willow Live Stakes are mainly wind-pollinated and seeding, meaning they rely on the gracefully blowing leaves to facilitate the movement of their pollen and feathery seeds through the air.
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Height at Maturity
Over 25 Feet

Care
To care for Black Willow Stakes, ensure they are planted in moist to wet soil, ideally near water sources. Keep the dirt always damp, particularly during the establishment phase. Prune lightly to encourage healthy growth and strong roots.

Plant Reproduction
Black Willow Live Stakes spread rapidly through roots and shoots.
Remember to plant live stakes in early spring or late fall in moist, well-drained soil, preferably along stream banks or erosion-prone areas. Insert at a 45-degree angle in the ground, ensuring at least two-thirds of their length is buried, with the buds facing upward. Space the stakes approximately 2-3 feet apart for proper growth. After planting, water them thoroughly and maintain consistent moisture, especially during dry periods, to help root development. With proper care and sound conditions, live stakes will root successfully in 6-8 weeks and assist in soil stabilization and habitat restoration.
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Attractive Bark:
As the stakes mature, their bark changes from light brownish-orange to dark brownish-black, often displaying reddish or coppery tones. The textured bark, which starts smooth and glossy, becomes rough and covered with shaggy scales and deep grooves, adding visual interest.
Compact Growth:
Several stems branch out from a single base at right angles, giving these trees an open crown. This growth pattern makes them ideal for creating an attractive, space-efficient landscape.
Mesmerizing Reflections:
Tall, straight stems arch beautifully over bodies of water, creating mesmerizing reflections. The color-changing foliage and textured bark produce reflections with volume and depth, enhancing the beauty of water features.
Stunning Foliage:
Black Willow Stakes showcase vibrant green leaves in spring, deepening in summer, and transforming through yellow, gold, and orange in fall, brightening up your yard with a brilliant array of colors.
Caring Tips
How do I care for my Black Willow Stakes?
Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.
Care Tips
To care for Black Willow Stakes, ensure they are planted in moist to wet soil, ideally near water sources. Keep the dirt always damp, particularly during the establishment phase. Prune lightly to encourage healthy growth and strong roots.
Light Requirements
Black Willow Stakes thrive in full sun to partial shade, preferring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but total sun exposure is recommended for optimal growth and health.
Hardy Planting Zones
2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8
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