This plant is commonly called a coral embers willow because of its coral colored branches that are visible when the leaves have fallen.

The coral embers willow can be grown as a shrub by pruning it close to the ground. Alternatively, it can be allowed to grow into a tree (up to 80’). This willow gets its name from the new growth that is a beautiful red in the winter. It blooms from April to May with white and brown flowers. ‘Britzensis’ will not bear fruit, since it is a male cultivar. It can grow in full sun to partial shade in moist, fertile soil.

Members of the genus Salix are commonly known as willows. These woody plants range in size from the imposing weeping willow tree to small shrubs. While not fussy about soil quality, they generally require moderate to wet soil moisture. In the wild, willows are commonly found near streams, rivers and ponds. In cultivation, willows are often used to control erosion in such areas. They are easily propagated from cuttings; willows root and grow quickly.

Of the estimated 350 species in the genus Salix, most are native to the cooler, temperate and sub-polar regions of Asia, Europe and North America. Cross species hybridization occurs both naturally and through human intervention, which can make taxonomic distinctions challenging. The Chicago Botanic Garden's collection contains almost 150 varieties among its more than 8,000 willows.