First and foremost, it’s important to note that the twisted willow has a relatively short lifespan when compared to other trees, with most specimens dying around the age of 10 years. If you’re looking to grow a tree that lasts decades or even generations, it’s best to avoid the twisted willow for this reason. Sure, some specimens may reach 15 or even 27 years, but the majority of twisted willows fail to see their 10th birthday.

Native to China and Korea, this tree offers unique contorted branches, changing foliage, and fuzzy flowers that add texture to the landscape from suburban to beachside properties. Attracting butterflies in the warm months and producing fruit in the fall, this hardy plant provides year-round interest. Corkscrew Willow is a fast-growing multi-stemmed tree (or shrub). The plant grows up to 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide. When planting, space 30 to 40 feet. Plant the tree in a sunny location. Corkscrew Willow prefers full sun, though it will grow in part shade to part sun. Establish in clay, loam, sand, acidic or alkaline soil, which must be moist and fast-draining. Standing water will cause root rot. A good choice for coastal plantings, this willow variety is especially tolerant of drought, street salt, and soil salt. While this deciduous tree will grow in a variety of light and soil environments, it does have specific water needs. Apply a two to three-inch layer of mulch a couple of inches away from the base. Mulch will maintain moisture and reduce weeds. Water often when the weather is hot and dry.

Prune in late winter to early spring. When damaged or dead branches are pruned annually, the tree will stay healthy. Air and sunlight will keep the bark healthy and ensure it is less prone to insect damage.

Corkscrew Willow is susceptible to many pests but the effects are rarely serious. The most lasting pests are willow leaf beetles, which come in two generations. Adult beetles are metallic blue and eat the whole leaf. The black larvae they leave behind skeletonize the leaves. Typically, willow leaf beetles will not damage all the foliage and the tree will continue to thrive. Aphids will cause honeydew to appear on lower leaves. Fortunately, predatory insects will deter such pests naturally. If the leaves begin to yellow, this could be a sign of lace bugs. These winged transparent insects are small and found under the leaves, which will turn yellow too early in the season.

Many diseases are possible such as powdery mildew, but these diseases usually do not require treatment. Willow scab fungus enters twigs, causes cankers, and kills young leaves quickly, apparent in the form of olive green spores under the leaves. Physalospora miyabeana is another fungus that attacks willow.

To maintain the tree's health, prune infected branches. Apply fertilizer every spring. Yellow spots under the leaves could be a sign of rust. Rake and remove diseased leaves at the end of every growing season.

Thank you for the above information regarding my Corkscrew Willow Tree.  Do you have anyone on staff that could take a look at my tree?  I would be happy to pay for the service.  Thank you, Bill Betts

We are not available for site visits. You could contact an aborist to help you. Maybe you have a photo you could send that would help diagnosing your problem further. Hope this helps!

The base of your tree looks like an old scar and maybe some rot as entered. To maintain the tree's health, prune any old an dying branches. maintain good air circulation. Apply fertilizer every spring. Rake and remove diseased leaves at the end of every growing season. Make sure your tree receives enough water during the dry season. Hope this helps!

Thank you!!