Corkscrew Willow Tree

Corkscrew Willow is one of the most visually distinctive and artistically compelling trees you can plant — a fast-growing ornamental with uniquely twisted, spiraling branches and curling foliage that create a sculptural presence unlike anything else in the landscape. Also known as Curly Willow (Salix matsudana ‘Tortuosa’), it earns its place in the garden in every season: curling spring leaves, graceful summer canopy, bright yellow fall color, and the dramatic bare twisted branch structure that makes it exceptional for winter interest and one of the most sought-after trees for floral arrangements and decorative cuttings. Cold hardy across a wide range in Zones 3–10 and fast-growing at up to 3–4 feet per year.

Four-Season Sculptural Interest

Corkscrew Willow’s appeal doesn’t stop when the leaves drop — in many ways, winter is when it’s most dramatic. The uniquely twisted, spiraling branches create an artistic silhouette against winter skies that makes it a genuine focal point even in the dormant garden. In spring, long narrow leaves emerge with a light curl that softens into graceful arching summer growth. Bright yellow fall foliage closes out the season before the branches reclaim center stage.

Prized for Floral Arrangements and Decorative Cuttings

Few landscape trees have the dual value that Corkscrew Willow offers in the cutting garden. The curled, twisted branches are among the most sought-after materials in floral design — used in arrangements, vases, and decorative displays where their sculptural form adds texture and movement that no manufactured material can replicate. A mature tree provides an essentially endless supply of beautiful cutting material throughout the year.

Thrives in Wet Areas and Challenging Sites

Corkscrew Willow’s tolerance for moist soils and periodically wet conditions makes it exceptionally valuable for low-lying areas, stream banks, rain gardens, and other challenging sites where many trees would struggle. It adapts to a wide range of soil types including clay and sandy soils, grows vigorously once established, and fills difficult spaces in the landscape with genuine beauty.

Note: Corkscrew Willow branches are somewhat brittle — choose planting locations sheltered from heavy wind exposure when possible.

Why Growers Choose Corkscrew Willow

• Uniquely twisted sculptural branches — dramatic winter interest unlike any other tree
• Prized for floral arrangements — sought-after decorative cutting material year-round
• Fast-growing — establishes and fills space quickly at up to 3–4 feet per year
• Tolerates wet soils — ideal for rain gardens, stream banks, and low-lying areas
• Bright yellow fall color — beautiful seasonal display before winter branch display begins
• Cold hardy in Zones 3–10 — one of the most widely adaptable ornamental trees available