‘Flamingo’ Dappled Willow (Salix integra) – shrub with pink variegated foliage – 17 cm pot – height 40–50 cm

Yes, the Flamingo Willow (Salix integra 'Flamingo') is fully hardy throughout France. It can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C, making it suitable for regions with harsh winters such as the northeast, the Massif Central, and mountainous areas. As a deciduous plant, it naturally loses its leaves in autumn and enters dormancy, allowing it to withstand frost without damage. No winter protection is necessary when planted in the ground and well established.

When mature, the Flamingo weeping willow can reach a height of approximately 2 to 3 metres, depending on growing conditions and the vigour of the plant. It grows quickly, especially in fresh to moist soil and full sun. Grafted specimens remain more compact and form a characteristic rounded crown, making them well suited to small gardens, patios or the edges of a'water feature'pond. With regular pruning, it is entirely possible to control its growth and maintain an elegant, dense shape that produces fresh, colourful shoots every year.

The key to intense pink variegated foliage lies in two factors: exposure and pruning. The Flamingo weeping willow (Salix integra 'Flamingo') develops its brightest shades, between deep pink, creamy white and soft green, on the young shoots. A short pruning each spring (March) stimulates the growth of these highly colorful new twigs in abundance. A second light pruning in August allows for a partial renewal of the shoots to prolong the decorative effect at the end of the season.

The Flamingo weeping willow can certainly be grown in a large patio container, provided you choose a container of'at least 40 to 50 litres to allow the roots to develop. Use a rich, fresh, and well-draining potting mix, combining potting soil and garden soil. It'will need to be watered more regularly than'when planted in the ground, as containers dry out faster in summer, and the willow is particularly thirsty. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support growth.

The main pruning of the Flamingo Shrimp Willow s'takes place in March, just before the buds break, when the buds begin to swell but before the leaves n'appear. We prune short, cutting back the previous year's shoots to 2 or 3 buds from their base, which stimulates dense growth of very colorful new shoots. A second light pruning is possible in August to renew some of the shoots and revive the colors at the end of s'ummer.

The Flamingo shrimp willow pairs beautifully with dark-foliaged plants that make its pink and white hues stand out: think Physocarpus opulifolius with burgundy leaves such as 'Diablo' or 'Lady in Red', or ornamental grasses such as Pennisetum purpureum. For a romantic effect, pair it with pink or white hydrangeas in partial shade, or shrub roses in harmonious tones. By the edge of a pond, it naturally complements water irises, ornamental rushes, or variegated sedges that also enjoy cool soils.

Yes, the Flamingo Willow benefits from the rapid growth characteristic of willows (Salix integra). In good conditions, in moist soil and full sun, it can grow 30 to 60 cm per year. This vigor is a considerable asset for quickly achieving a beautiful decorative effect in the garden, but it also requires regular pruning to maintain a harmonious shape. The rate of growth depends heavily on the available moisture: in dry soil, growth will be more moderate. In moist soil or near a body of water, it will reach its final shape in just a few seasons.