I’m a huge fan of colorful stems in the winter months and frequently turn to various red-stemmed and yellow-stemmed dogwoods (Cornus sp.). The stems have the added value as cut elements in winter containers and arrangements.  However, I would encourage everyone to become familiar with the ‘Flame’ willow (Salix hybrida) which has few rivals that can match the intense, fiery orange-red winter stem coloration.

This fast-growing willow is hardy in zones 4-9 although I’m aware of some specimens thriving in zone 3 as well.  This adaptable and dependable plant prefers full sun and moist but well-drained soils.  ‘Flame’ willow is also pH adaptable and alkaline tolerant. 

Growing vigorously, this hybrid willow wants to reach 15-20’ in height.  Don’t ever let it get that tall!  It works as a fabulous screen in the 6’-8’ range if tended properly with well-timed rejuvenation pruning.  This willow also has functional value for erosion control, slope stabilization and is urban pollution tolerant.  As with many of our most colorful “stemmed” woody plants, it’s the newest growth that has the most intense coloration.  Older stems offer less color and the older ‘Flame’ willows only display colorful stems on the outer extremities of the plant with little to no color on the older stems.  The dark green, narrow, 4” long leaves turn yellow in fall and as they drop, the stems of ‘Flame’ willow start their transition to an intense orange and ultimately a red that warms the landscape.  Cutting an established ‘Flame’ willow back severely in March to 6” stubs will result in 5’-6’ of new growth that year. These new stems will be amazingly colorful again in winter! To grow it is to love it!