willow family

Willow Wrangler

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I do not make a habit of wrestling with trees, but occasionally it becomes necessary.  Last week I finished a several-round bout with the coral bark willow, Salix alba subspecies vitellina ‘Britzensis’, which grows smack in the middle of my front border. I want to emphasize that ‘Britzensis’ is a wonderful plant.  A male member … Read more

What Ever Happened to Lombardy Poplar?

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The house where I grew up was sold to another family right after I got married, so my memories of the place have grown rosy-tinted over time.  One thing is certain.  The back garden was bounded by eight tall Lombardy poplar trees.  My father loved them and they were everywhere in my hometown.  Now they … Read more