Hybrid Willow: A Northern Native Worth Knowing
If you’re passionate about native plants and live in the far north, you might be intrigued by the hybrid willow (Salix ×waghornei). This lesser-known native shrub calls some of North America’s most rugged landscapes home, though don’t expect to find it at your local nursery anytime soon.
Where Does Hybrid Willow Grow?
Salix ×waghornei is native to the northern reaches of North America, specifically found in Alaska and Canada. Its natural range includes British Columbia, Alaska, Labrador, and Newfoundland – regions known for their harsh winters and short growing seasons.
What Makes This Willow Special?
As its botanical name suggests (that little × is the giveaway), this is a hybrid willow – meaning it’s a natural cross between two willow species. Like most willows, it’s a perennial shrub with multiple stems that typically stays under 13-16 feet tall, though it can occasionally grow taller or develop a single trunk depending on growing conditions.
Should You Plant Hybrid Willow?
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. While Salix ×waghornei is undeniably native to northern regions, information about its cultivation, care requirements, and availability is extremely limited. This suggests it’s more of a botanical curiosity than a garden-ready native plant.
The Challenges:
- Very limited availability in the nursery trade
- Lack of established cultivation guidelines
- Uncertainty about specific growing requirements
- Unknown performance in typical garden settings
Better Native Willow Alternatives
If you’re drawn to native willows for your northern garden, consider these more readily available options:
- Pussy willow (Salix discolor) – beloved for its fuzzy spring catkins
- Peachleaf willow (Salix amygdaloides) – attractive native with peach-like leaves
- Sandbar willow (Salix interior) – excellent for erosion control
The Bottom Line
While Salix ×waghornei represents the fascinating world of natural plant hybridization in northern ecosystems, it’s not practical for most gardeners. If you encounter this hybrid willow in the wild during your northern adventures, take a moment to appreciate this unique piece of botanical heritage. But for your garden, stick with better-known native willows that come with proven cultivation guidance and reliable sources.
Sometimes the most interesting native plants are the ones we admire from afar – and that’s perfectly okay!
