Salix matsudana Caradoc - Corkscrew Willow

Salix matsudana 'Caradoc' is a twisted willow which is particularly interesting throughout the year, both for its very bright yellow-green spiralled branches and its unusually textured leaves. This medium-sized deciduous tree thrives particularly well near water, where it becomes a remarkable specimen tree. It can also be planted near a building that will enhance its picturesque silhouette.

Salix matsudana 'Caradoc' is also marketed under the names Salix x sepulcralis 'Caradoc', Salix babylonica var. pekinensis 'Caradoc', or even Salix matsudana tortuosa 'Caradoc'. It is a horticultural variety resulting from the cross-breeding between Salix matsudana 'Tortuosa' and Salix alba 'Vitellina'. Like all willows (Salix), it belongs to the salicaceae family.

The twisted willow 'Caradoc', with rather rapid growth, can reach a height of 10 m with a spread of 6 m after 20 years. Its branches are entirely spiralled and twisted. In spring, new shoots of a fluorescent yellow-green develop, adorned with finely lanceolate green leaves that are also twisted. In autumn, the leaves turn a bright yellow before falling. During winter, after the leaves have dropped, the stems change from yellow-green to an orange-yellow or amber colour. In very cold regions, the stems covered with a fine layer of snow are particularly decorative. Flowering occurs in early spring, on the bare branches, between March and April. It takes the form of charming, small white catkins. Salix matsudana 'Caradoc' can be pruned in winter to reduce its size and encourage the development of new decorative stems. If left unpruned, it will form a tall tree.

Salix Caradoc requires constantly moist soil, making it perfect near ponds and natural pools or along riverbanks. It thrives in rich, clayey, sandy, or loamy soil, alongside perennial wetland plants. This tree also tolerates coastal conditions. Plant it as a specimen tree, and it will stand out in any landscape. Its twisted stems have a unique pattern that is admired both in the garden and in floral arrangements.

Tip: Collect fallen leaves in autumn and burn them if the tree shows black spots (anthracnose) or orange-yellow (rust) during its growth. Once all the leaves have fallen, treat with Bordeaux mixture.