Tree/Shrub That Can Survive Georgia Clay

willow catkins

Q: My neighbors and I want to plant some type of tree or large shrub that will take root and survive on an island on Lake Nottely. The island is Georgia clay and is submerged four months out of the year. It receives full sun. 

A: Offhand, only willow and bald cypress could fit the bill. I don’t know if it’s accurate, but one online article says young cypress trees can’t be flooded for more than 45 days. On the other hand, researchers in Canada reported that pussy willow, Salix discolor, and sandbar willow, Salix lutea, could survive long periods underwater.

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