Corkscrew Willow Tree 40/60cm (P9T)

The Corkscrew Willow ‘Tortuosa’ – Salix babylonica var. pekinensis ‘Tortuosa’ brings extraordinary architectural interest to gardens with its dramatically twisted branches and contorted stems. This deciduous tree creates a sculptural focal point throughout the year, with its spiralling branches forming intricate patterns that become particularly striking during winter months when the framework is fully revealed. The contorted growth habit extends to the leaves, which curl and twist along the branches, adding to the tree’s distinctive character.

During spring, fresh lime-green foliage emerges along the twisted stems, creating a vibrant display that softens the angular structure. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves maintain their curled form throughout summer, catching light and creating movement with even the gentlest breeze. As autumn approaches, the foliage turns golden-yellow before falling to reveal the tree’s remarkable winter silhouette. The bare stems showcase their corkscrew form beautifully, with the golden-brown to olive-green bark adding warm tones to the winter garden.

This variety thrives in the British climate, showing excellent cold hardiness and tolerance of wet conditions. The Corkscrew Willow grows vigorously in most soil types, though it performs best in moisture-retentive ground. It’s particularly well-suited to planting near water features or in areas with naturally damp soil, where its roots can access consistent moisture. The twisted branches are frequently harvested for floral arrangements and decorative displays, with the stems lasting well in water and even producing roots if left long enough.

Young plants establish quickly, developing their characteristic twisted form from an early age. The contorted growth pattern intensifies as the tree matures, creating an increasingly dramatic display. While often grown as a multi-stemmed specimen, it can also be trained as a standard tree with a clear trunk, allowing the twisted canopy to be appreciated at eye level.

Care Guide

Plant in full sun to partial shade, though the best stem colour and most vigorous growth occur in sunny positions. The Corkscrew Willow tolerates a wide range of soil conditions but grows most successfully in fertile, moisture-retentive ground. Avoid planting in very dry locations unless you can provide supplementary watering during prolonged dry spells.

Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, the tree shows good drought tolerance, though growth may slow during extended dry periods. Apply a general-purpose fertiliser in early spring to support vigorous growth, particularly for young plants.

Pruning is rarely necessary but can be carried out between late autumn and early spring to maintain size or shape. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches, and thin congested growth to maintain the tree’s open structure. The twisted stems make excellent material for indoor arrangements and can be cut without harming the tree’s overall health.

Watch for aphids during spring and early summer, which occasionally colonise young growth. These rarely cause lasting damage and can be controlled with a strong spray of water or appropriate treatments if necessary. The tree shows good resistance to most diseases common to willows.

Mulch around the base with organic matter each spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch clear of the trunk to prevent bark damage. Container-grown specimens require more frequent watering and benefit from annual repotting or top-dressing with fresh compost.

Ultimate height
8–12 metres

Time to ultimate height
10–20 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres