Dappled Willow
Hardiness zone: 4
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Dappled Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-Nishiki’)
Colorful Foliage Accent Shrub for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 4–7)
Quick Expert Summary
The Dappled Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-Nishiki’) is a fast-growing, moderately cold-hardy shrub ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada (Zones 4–7). It typically grows 1–2 ft per year (30–60 cm) and reaches 3–10 ft (1–3 m) at maturity. Best for ornamental planting, small yards, and accent landscaping, it offers striking pink and white variegated foliage and excellent adaptability to a wide range of soils.
Why Choose Dappled Willow for Ontario and Eastern Canada?
A unique ornamental shrub prized for its colorful foliage and fast growth, perfect for adding contrast and brightness to landscapes.
- Hardiness: Zone 4 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 4–7)
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Best For: Ornament, small yards, accent planting
- Maintenance: Medium once established
- Key Feature: Variegated pink-white foliage
- Native / Non-native: Widely cultivated ornamental
It adapts well to:
- Rich soils
- Clay, sandy, or loamy soils
- Moist, well-drained conditions
- Urban and residential landscapes
- Cold climates with moderate wind exposure
Tree/Shrub Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Mature Height | 3–10 ft (1–3 m) |
| Mature Spread | 3–6 ft |
| Growth Rate | 1–2 ft per year |
| Hardiness Zone | 4 (Ideal for Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 4–7) |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Preference | Moist, well-drained, rich, adaptable |
| Water Needs | Moderate (regular moisture preferred) |
| Drought Tolerance | Low to moderate |
| Deer Resistance | Low |
| Lifespan | 20–30+ years |
Is Dappled Willow Right for Your Yard?
Choose Dappled Willow if:
- You want fast visual impact within 1–2 years
- You have a small to medium yard
- You live in Zone 4–7
- You want colorful foliage and contrast
- You need a shrub for accent planting or garden beds
Not ideal if:
- Your yard is extremely small and requires minimal spread
- You need a drought-tolerant plant
- You are planting too close to foundations or walkways
Best Uses
- Front yard focal shrub
- Accent planting in beds
- Low hedges
- Decorative garden borders
- Container or small space landscaping
Why it works:
Its vibrant foliage provides season-long color, while its dense branching and fast growth create structure and visual contrast in landscape designs.
What Makes Dappled Willow Special?
A standout ornamental shrub with dynamic seasonal colour changes.
- Spring: New growth emerges pink and soft cream
- Summer: Leaves turn variegated green, white, and pink
- Fall: Subtle green tones with lingering variegation
- Winter: Fine branching structure with yellowish stems
Winter Survival in Ontario and Eastern Canada
Yes, Dappled Willow is hardy in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 4–7 and tolerates typical winter conditions, though it may benefit from some protection in colder exposed areas.
First-year tip:
- Add 2–3 inches of mulch
- Water deeply before the first hard frost
- Protect from strong winter winds if exposed
Planting Guide for Ontario and Eastern Canada
Best planting time:
- Spring (April–June)
- Early fall (September–October)
Spacing:
- 4–6 ft from foundations
- 3–5 ft between plants
Watering (first year):
- Water deeply 1–2 times per week for 6–8 weeks
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Quick Answers (FAQ)
How fast does Dappled Willow grow in Ontario?
Typically 1–2 ft per year in good conditions.
Is it cold hardy in Ontario?
Yes. It is hardy to Zone 4 and performs well in Ontario and Eastern Canada Zones 4–7.
Does it need another tree for pollination?
No—grown for foliage, not fruit production.
Are the roots invasive?
Roots are shallow but not considered invasive; plant 4–6 ft from structures.
Is it messy?
Low—may drop some leaves and fine twigs.
Compare With Similar Trees/Shrubs
| Tree | Growth | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dappled Willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-Nishiki’) | Fast | Variegated pink-white foliage | Accent planting |
| Japanese Willow (Salix integra) | Fast | Green foliage | Natural look |
| Red-osier Dogwood | Fast | Bright red stems in winter, very hardy | Winter interest, hedges, wet areas |
Shipping Across Quebec, Ontario and Atlantic Provinces
- Nursery-grown
- Carefully packaged
- Shipped to your door in Ontario and Eastern Canada
- Healthy root system guarantee (if applicable)
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Sizes of our plants
Sizes of our plants
Our trees and shrubs are sold in two sizes: small (110 ml volume) and large (310 ml volume).
Volume discount
Volume discount
At TreesOnline.ca, the more you buy, the more you save! We offer a volume discount program that benefits our customers who place large orders! To find out the discount you will receive, based on the value of your order, consult the table below.
From $0.00 to $199.99 = 0% discount
From $200.00 to $299.99 = 5% discount
$300.00 and over = 10% discount
Delivery across Canada - Spring 2026
Delivery across Canada - Spring 2026
Delivery available across Canada. Order now and receive your plants in Spring 2026.
Nursery pickup: A flat preparation and packaging fee of $8 will be added to your bill upon pickup. Select the "nursery pickup" option at checkout on our online store.
Quebec and Ontario: Base fee of $23, plus 20% of the plants' value. Add $5 for signature.
All other Canadian provinces: Base fee of $50, plus 20% of the plant value. Add $5 for signature.
Glossary of trees and shrubs of Quebec
Glossary of trees and shrubs of Quebec
Questions about our terminology? Consult our online glossary .
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