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Key characteristics

Family: Salicaceae
Height: 4 to 6 feet
Width: 3 to 5 feet
Flower color: Insignificant; small yellowish catkins in early spring
Foliage color: Pink, white, and green variegated leaves
Bloom time: Early spring (not grown for flowers)
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: High
Maintenance: Moderate; requires regular pruning to encourage vibrant new growth and maintain size
Growing zone: USDA zones 4 to 9
Wildlife: Provides shelter and habitat for birds; young shoots and catkins may attract pollinators

Shrubs

Salix integra 'Flamingo'

Flamingo Dappled Willow

Salix integra 'Flamingo' is a deciduous shrub celebrated for its tri-colored foliage. In spring, the new growth emerges in shades of pink, cream, and green, creating a vibrant display that softens to pale green with creamy margins as the season progresses. This colorful foliage is complemented by slender, coral-colored stems that add visual interest even in winter after the leaves have fallen.

This cultivar originates from East Asia and has been bred for its ornamental qualities, particularly its unique foliage and year-round appeal.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

High

Bloom time

Early spring (not grown for flowers)

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Foundation Plantings
Specimen Plants
Hedging & Privacy

Companion plants

Tulips · Beautyberry · Coreopsis · Maiden grass · Sea thrift · California lilac

Design tip

Treat ‘Flamingo’ as a foliage focal point rather than surrounding it with competing variegated plants. A setting dominated by solid green leaves will make its pink-and-cream new growth stand out clearly while keeping the overall planting calm and cohesive.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)