Hakura Nishiki Tricolor Willow

Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’

Hakuro Nishiki, also known as Dappled Willow or Tricolor Willow, is a fast-growing, compact deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its stunning pink, white, and green variegated foliage. New growth emerges pink, then transitions to white and green, creating a beautiful dappled effect. This cold-hardy (Zone 4-7), adaptable, and low-maintenance shrub is ideal for borders, hedges, specimen plantings, and containers in Southwest Saskatchewan.

Planting & Location

• Hardiness Zone: 4-7 (borderline hardy in Zone 3 with winter protection)
• Mature Size:
  • Shrub form: 4-6 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide
  • Tree form (if grafted): 8-10 feet tall, 5-6 feet wide
• Growth Rate: Fast (up to 2-3 feet per year)
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun to partial shade (best color in 6+ hours of sun)
• Soil Preference:
  • Prefers moist, well-drained loamy soil.
  • Tolerates clay, sandy, and slightly acidic to alkaline soils.
  • Avoid dry, compacted, or overly wet soils.
• Spacing: 4-6 feet apart for mass planting, 6+ feet apart for individual shrubs.

Watering

• Young Plants (First Year): Water deeply 1-2 times per week to establish roots.
• Established Shrubs: Prefers consistent moisture, water once per week in dry conditions.
• Avoid Overwatering: Prefers moderate soil moisture, but never let soil fully dry out.

Fertilizing

• First Year: No fertilizer needed—focus on root establishment.
• Mature Shrubs:
  • Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring to encourage strong growth and vibrant foliage.
  • Organic alternative: Compost or well-rotted manure in spring.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Best Time to Prune: Late winter to early spring, before new growth starts.
• How to Prune:
  • Remove dead, damaged, or weak branches to encourage fresh, healthy growth.
  • Hard prune (cut back to 12 inches above ground) in early spring to encourage the best pink and white variegation.
  • Light shaping can be done throughout the growing season.

Flowers & Foliage

• Bloom Time: Early spring (April-May) (not grown for flowers, but produces small catkins)
• Flower Type: Yellow catkins (insignificant)
• Foliage:
  • Spring: Pink new growth
  • Summer: White, green, and pink dappled leaves
  • Fall: Golden-yellow foliage before dropping

Pest & Disease Management

Resistant to: Deer, urban pollution, and most pests

Common Pests:

• Aphids – May cause curled leaves and sticky honeydew.
  • Solution: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce ladybugs.
• Spider Mites – Can cause leaf discoloration in hot, dry conditions.
  • Solution: Hose off with water or use insecticidal soap.

Common Diseases:

• Powdery Mildew – White fungal coating on leaves.
  • Solution: Improve airflow and apply fungicide if needed.
• Leaf Spot (Fungal or Bacterial) – Causes brown spots on foliage.
  • Solution: Avoid overhead watering and remove infected leaves.

Winter Protection

• Hardy in Zone 4, but in Zone 3 areas, apply a thick layer of mulch (2-4 inches) to insulate roots.
• Young plants may benefit from burlap wrapping in exposed areas during harsh winters.
• Rodents & Deer: Generally resistant, but young plants may need protection.

Landscape Uses

Great for specimen planting, hedges, and borders
Beautiful, multi-season foliage interest
Can be shaped into a small tree or kept as a shrub
Fast-growing and adaptable to various conditions
Attracts pollinators and provides light shade

Additional Notes:

• Hakuro Nishiki is one of the most colorful ornamental willows, prized for its vibrant pink and white foliage and elegant form.
• Lifespan: 20+ years with proper care.
• Works well in rain gardens, cottage gardens, modern landscapes, or as a focal plant.

Photo courtesy of NC State University