The Australian willow, also known by its scientific name Geijera parviflora, is an evergreen tree that is native to Australia. It can grow to heights of 35 feet (about 10.7 m) and widths of 25 feet (about 7.6 m). It is a member of the family Rutaceae, along with other willows. This species of willow is often planted to provide shade to outdoor living areas on sunny days.
The inner branches of the Australian willow are strong and able to resist strong winds. While these inner branches usually direct themselves upward, the thinner outer branches often hang like wispy pendulums. They can easily sway in the wind and rarely break, even with the most adverse weather conditions.
The leaves of the Australian willow are linear and slender. Their thinness makes them seem delicate and adds to the wispy appearance of the tree as a whole. They are typically about 2 to 4 inches (0.8 to 1.6 cm) in length and are olive green in color. The leaves are evergreen and do not fall or change colors at any point throughout the year.
Flowers on the Australian willow typically grow in short clusters or panicles of tiny, white or gray flowers. The flowers generally bloom in the spring and early fall months. The tree also produces a round-shaped fruit that ranges in length from 0.5 to 1 inch (about 1.3 to 2.5 cm). The fruit is not edible by birds or animals and does not collect on the ground, making it go virtually unnoticed.
It is possible to grow the Australian willow from seed, though it is a slow-growing species. In areas with mild climates, it is possible to purchase the tree from a nursery or home garden store. In addition, some Internet nurseries are also willing to ship small trees or seedlings to customers. Since it is not a cold weather tree, it will grow best in areas where the temperature remains above 30 or 40°F (about -1.1 or 4.4°C).
Generally, the Australian willow grows best in full sunlight and in warm climates. It generally prefers to be in soils that contain sand, loam, or any well-draining content. It is moderately tolerant of drought conditions, making it a good tree for warmer climates. It is also unaffected by most serious diseases and pests, but root rot may pose a problem if the soil does not drain well. Some gardeners may choose to prune the tree, but it is not a necessary step to maintain its health.
