I too looked into the Austree Willow but then came across this:
[I]The boast that the Austree has ‘substantial vigor’ and can grow ‘8 to 10 feet of growth’ or more in the first year could be true. Beware though! Extremely fast growing trees like these willows tend to have a multitude of problems. They have weak wood which is prone to breakage from wind or ice. They’re subject to attack by aphids, wood borers, wood rot, and canker diseases. They’re also messy. Willows are known for dropping leaves and twigs all year.
Yet another drawback is that fast growing trees, like willows, tend to be short-lived. The official website says that the Austree has ‘a life expectancy in excess of 50 years depending on the growing conditions and the planting site.’ It’s highly unlikely that this hybrid willow would live this long here. It’s effective life expectancy is more like twelve to fifteen years. This is because, like other willows, the Austree is susceptible to numerous canker diseases which can significantly shorten its life expectancy, especially under the stressful growing conditions encountered in our region.
The Austree website also notes that once the ‘root system is established, supplemental watering isn’t necessary.’ This might be true in some areas, but it’s going to need as much water as other shade trees… probably more. Willows do best when planted in moist soil areas such as those found along river and stream banks.
So to sum it all up, the Austree isn’t a suitable long-lived shade tree… However, if you need a quick temporary windbreak or screen, you might consider it. The keyword is ‘temporary.’ After planting Austrees, longer-lived species should be planted along with the Austrees so they can take over when these willows start to decline. It’s also very important to keep in mind their invasive roots.[/I]
I voted no on this tree – but I’m sure it has perfect uses for some.
