Finding and Growing Golden Curly Willow in Southern Ontario

A gardener in Southern Ontario wanted to locate a mature golden curly willow (Salix matsudana 'Golden Curls') before buying.

Hardiness & Growth

Southern Ontario is Zone 4–5. Golden curly willow is hardy **Zone 4–8**, so it thrives there. It roots **extremely easily**—even a cut stem in a vase will sprout roots. Plant a rooted "whip" (cost ~$5) and in 3 years you have a shrub; 5 years, a tree.

Where to See One

The expert provided nursery search links (now outdated). Current best bets:

• Search **"native plant nursery Southern Ontario"** or **"willow nursery Ontario"**.
• Contact **Ontario Horticultural Association** or local **Master Gardeners**.
• Visit **Toronto Botanical Garden**, **Royal Botanical Gardens (Burlington)**, or **University of Guelph Arboretum**.

Just Order the Whip

Given the ease and low cost, buying a whip online or from a mail-order nursery is practical. You'll have a specimen tree faster than tracking down a public mature tree.