The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Flamingo willow (Salix integra’Flamingo') is a very fast-growing deciduous broad-leaf shrub.
The red branches offer good winter color, similar to those on red-twig dogwood.
Flamingo willow is such a fast-growing plant that it requires constant pruning to keep its landscape appeal.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
It can be planted as a specimen plant, in small groups, or as a hedge border.
It requires a moist location and is ideal for rain gardens and other damp soils.
It may require several prunings over the year.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Soil
This plant likes moist but well-drained soil that has ample organic material.
Water
The question of how often to water a flamingo willow doesn’t really apply.
In dry soils, apply a thick layer of mulch to help retain soil moisture.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Temperature and Humidity
Best foliage color will be achieved in cooler climates north of zone 7.
This plant tolerates a wide range of humidity levels.
Fertilizer
Willows don’t need any additional fertilizer.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Treatment of these diseases can include removing the affected areas or using a fungicide, where appropriate.
Insect pests include aphids, scale, borers, lace bugs, beetles, and caterpillars.
The Salix integraspecies includes one other popular cultivar in addition to the flamingo.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Dappled willow (Salix integra'‘Hakuro-nishiki’) is a very similar plant to the flamingo.
The flamingo willow is asportof the dappled willow, achieved by propagating a genetic mutation of the dappled willow.
The growth habit of the dappled willow is identical to the flamingo, but it lacks the tri-colored foliage.
With the proper care, a flamingo willow tree might live for up to 30 years.
