Fast-growing shrub willow named ‘Owasco’

Abstract

A distinct female cultivar of Salix viminalis×Salix miyabeana named ‘Owasco’, characterized by rapid stem growth producing greater than 49% more woody biomass than one of its parents (‘SX64’) and 39% more biomass than a current production cultivar (‘SV1’). ‘Otisco’ produced greater than 2.7-fold more stem biomass than two other current production cultivars, ‘SX67’ and ‘SX61’. ‘Owasco’ can be planted from dormant stem cuttings, produces multiple stems after coppice, and the stem biomass can be harvested when the plant is dormant. In the spring following harvest, the plant will re-sprout very vigorously, producing new stems that can be harvested after two to four years of growth. This harvest cycle can be repeated several times. The stem biomass can be chipped and burned as a source of renewable energy, generating heat and/or electricity. ‘Owasco’ displays a low incidence of rust disease and is not damaged by potato leafhoppers.

1. A new and distinct variety of a  Salix viminalis×Salix miyabeana  plant, substantially as illustrated and described herein.