Question
I live in Southern Ontario and would like to know where this plant grows in this area. I am interested in the yellow curly willow bush or tree.  I have questioned many people on this subject and no one seems to know. I have searched many sites on the web also to no avail. I have found pictures and companies who sell stems and the tree but, I would like to see one in person before I purchase it. Hopefully, you can help me with this.

Answer

Salix matsudana 'Golde Hello,

The first question is what is Southern Ontario's plant hardiness zone classified at.  According to the broad map, and without knowing your precise location; I can ascertain that you live in a Zone 5 edging into a Zone 4 area.  The zones are determined by evaluating the temperature extreme average in both degrees and duration.

Salix matsudana, common name Curly Willow var. 'Golden Curls', 'Golden Corkscrew', 'Contorted Hankow' or 'Twisted Twig' are all very cold hardy and very viable in areas ranging from Zone 4 to Zone 8 - which means it would be very happy in Southern Ontario.

This, like many other willows, is VERY easily propogated by stem.  Just putting a small branch in water indoors - part of a floral arrangement even, would readily cause it to sprout roots.  Once rooted, pop it in the ground and within three years you go from a twig to a nice little shrub - within 5 years you have an honest to goodness tree.

That being said, I have no idea where you would see a mature specimen in your area... and I have no way of knowing how far you'd travel to see one.  But what I can do is give you some links to local nurseries and garden centers where you're bound to stumble upon one.

In any event, go ahead and order the twig!  A willow "whip" would cost you no more than about $5 even if you ordered it from the most exclusive grower!

http://ylwbook.areaconnect.addresses.com/yp_results.php?ReportType=44&provider=1...

http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4SUNA_enUS289US29...