Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’ – The Flamingo Willow

Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’, commonly called the Flamingo Willow or Dappled Willow, is a striking ornamental shrub grown for its unique foliage and elegant shape. Its young leaves emerge with splashes of pink, cream, and green, creating a soft, dappled effect that looks almost painted. As the season progresses, the pink tones fade to white and green, while fresh growth continues to bring colour throughout spring and summer.

The T.G. (top grafted) form is especially popular, as the shrub is grafted onto a clear stem, creating a small ornamental “lollipop tree” that makes a perfect feature in gardens, patios, and borders. Its compact size and beautiful colouring ensure it stands out as a focal point without overwhelming surrounding plants.

General Information

Native to Japan, Salix integra is a small willow species prized for its colourful foliage rather than its catkins. The ‘Hakuro Nishiki’ cultivar is the best-known form, and when grafted (T.G. form), it creates an elegant feature tree.

• Growth habit: Bushy, rounded head when grafted; naturally upright, spreading when grown as a shrub

• Height & spread: Grafted standards typically reach 1.5–2m tall with a 1–1.5m wide crown

• Foliage: Variegated pink, cream, and green in spring; fresh green and white in summer

• Flowers: Small catkins may appear in spring, though they are not the main feature

• Position: Best in full sun to partial shade for maximum colour

• Hardiness: Fully hardy, tolerating frost and winter cold

• Soil: Thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil; appreciates consistent moisture

• Uses: Excellent as a specimen tree, in containers, or in borders for colour contrast

Its light, colourful foliage makes it a superb choice for brightening up gardens and creating a cheerful, elegant feature.

Care Guide

Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’ is easy to grow, though regular pruning helps maintain its best colour and compact shape.

Planting

• Plant in full sun for the strongest pink colour in new growth.

• Prefers moist but well-drained soil; add compost when planting.

• Water well after planting and mulch to help retain soil moisture.

• Container planting is possible, provided watering is kept regular.

Watering & Feeding

• Willows enjoy moisture—keep soil evenly moist, especially in summer.

• Water more frequently in dry spells or if grown in a pot.

• Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy foliage and colour.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

• Cut back about one-third of the stems to encourage vigorous new pink shoots.

• Remove any growth from below the graft point (suckers) to maintain the tree form.

• Light trimming in summer can also promote fresh foliage colour.

Protection

• Fully hardy in the UK and Ireland.

• Mulch in winter for young or container-grown plants to protect roots.

• Watch for aphids; healthy growth usually resists damage.

Why Choose Salix ‘Hakuro Nishiki’?

This colourful willow is one of the most popular ornamental trees for small gardens, thanks to its soft foliage tones and manageable size.

• Unique foliage: Pink, cream, and green leaves in spring; green and white in summer

• Compact form: Ideal for small gardens, patios, and containers

• All-season appeal: Spring catkins, summer foliage, and attractive winter stems

• Easy-care: Hardy and low-maintenance with simple pruning

• Elegant feature: The grafted “lollipop” form makes a perfect focal point

Salix integra ‘Hakuro Nishiki’ (T.G. form) is the perfect choice for gardeners seeking a small ornamental tree with vibrant, ever-changing colour. Whether planted in a border, placed by a patio, or grown in a decorative container, it provides charm and interest throughout the year.

• Size
  1/2 STD

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

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The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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