Description

Sideroxylon Salicifolium characteristics

Sideroxylon Salicifolium (Willow Bustic) is a medium-size tree or shrub; that normally grows up of 60 feet. Although, it is typically much shorter and often with a thick trunk. Additionally, it has upright branches forming an open columnar crown. And, it has brownish gray bark, somewhat smooth but with many furrows. It becomes rough and flaky, with pinkish inner bark. Leaves are spirally arranged, green and slightly shiny above, paler beneath, willow-like as the species name suggests, 2 1/2 – 4 x 3/4 – 1 1/4 inches. And flowers are borne on the stem ends in clusters of 5 – 12, blooms which are aromatic, small, less the 1/8 inch, cream color and attract butterflies and bees. Furthermore, the fruit is a small berry about 3/16 inch in diameter, green maturing to a dark brown, with 1 – 3 seeds, which birds eat. Seeds are for propagation. The trunk is sometimes tapped for gum. The wood is sometimes for heavy construction such as in bridges and as utility poles. Sideroxylon Salicifolium (Willow Bustic) will grow well in sandy or limestone soils with good drainage.

Willow Bustic Tree in the landscape

Willow Bustic is quite popular thanks of its showy flowers and fruits, aromatic fragrance and handsome foliage. In landscaping it has applications as a specimen tree in a yard or park and as a component of a natural plant garden.

Other names: white bully or willow bustic