Dappled Willow, (Salix integra 'Hakuro Nishiki') produces amazing leaves that are variegated when they are young. In fact, it's also known as Variegated Willow. Dappled Willows have a nice fine texture and loose and slightly weeping form, if left unpruned. It is one of the smaller members of the willow family, grown as a small tree form or large shrub. Growth Habit Grows in zones 4-9 reaching 4-6' both tall and wide. Care Plant your willow in full sun to partial shade (any area with about 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day), select a site with well-drained soil. Thinning the crown increases air circulation, which pushes wind through the tree and helps prevent disease. A good rule of thumb is to prune 2 inches between branches at the top of the tree during early spring, before new growth emerges. Toxicity According to Wikipedia , willows (in both Europe and North America) contain salicin, which, when metabolized, turns into salicylic acid - which is toxic to cats. Deer, squirrels, and birds like to eat the branches of willows.
