Salix integra, commonly known as Japanese Dappled Willow, is a deciduous shrub native to moist soils along streams and rivers in Japan and Korea. It typically grows to a height of 2–6 meters with distinctive greyish-green bark and reddish to yellowish young shoots. The leaves are pale green on both surfaces, and unlike most willows, they are often arranged oppositely or in whorls of three. The flowers, appearing as small catkins 1-2.5 cm long in early spring, are brownish to reddish and not particularly showy. Salix integra is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. The cultivar ’Hakuro Nishiki’, also known as dappled willow, is especially popular in cultivation for its striking variegated foliage, with leaves mottled with white and pale pink.

The Japanese Dappled Willow is valued for its variegated leaves and is often used in ornamental gardens, borders, and as a focal point when grafted onto a standard. It is relatively easy to maintain and can be pruned to shape. This shrub thrives in full sun to part shade, prefers medium water, and grows best in well-drained soils. It can be susceptible to willow blight and other fungal diseases, and care should be taken to avoid overly wet conditions which can exacerbate these issues. ’Hakuro Nishiki’ has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating its exceptional qualities for garden use.CC BY-SA 4.0