Nishiki Willow in Georgia: Hardy but Disease-Prone

Nishiki willow (Salix integra ‘Hakuro-nishiki’) is hardy in Zones 5–8, so it survives Georgia winters (Zones 7–8). However, willows in Georgia often suffer from cankers and leaf spots, shortening their lifespan.

Considerations

• Variegated pink/white/green foliage is striking in spring.
• Fast-growing, needs moist soil.
• Prune hard in late winter for best color.
• Expect 5–10 years before disease decline.

If you want a longer-lived variegated shrub, consider ‘Variegated’ red twig dogwood or ‘Golden Shadows’ pagoda dogwood.

Nishiki willow spring foliage—beautiful but often short-lived in the South.