For gardeners seeking a small tree or large shrub with gorgeous spring color, consider this Dappled willow, with new growth emerging in shades of pink mixed with cream and green. The variegation is unique and frankly stops one in one's tracks. Patient gardeners can train this willow into tree form, but must be willing to do the yearly pruning. It can be kept as small as four to six feet tall, but it's not unusual to see trees that are 10 feet or taller, and almost as wide. 'Hakuro Nishiki' may be used as a spring/summer foundation shrub, privacy screen, or hedge, pruning the arching branches in late winter or early spring to encourage new colorful growth. Yes, it will lose its leaves in the winter, but that only makes the reddish branches stand out all the more, adding interest to the winter garden.

Willows will tolerate wet feet to a certain extent, and may be planted alongside ponds or other water sources.