Looking for willow whips for structures that will do well in zone 9

I've been searching and can't seem to find a type of willow whip that will grow in Jacksonville, Florida zone 9 that I can make a dome from (see pic) and to possibly use on the bank of a creek we live on that is eroding. Can anyone advise? Thanks!
  8 answers
  • Kate Kate on May 03, 2017

    I hate to suggest it, as it can get to be a major pain if not controlled, but how about bamboo rather than willow?

  • I was thinking the same thing - there are "clumping bamboo" varieties that do not spread. We have one called "Heavenly Bamboo." That might work.

  • Sam Sam on May 03, 2017

    you can use so many different kinds of materials for the structure (such as the other person suggested (bamboo) and then plant some kinds of climbing plants

    you can even put some chicken wire on it, so it fills completely in, or some heavy string or thin roping.

  • Kpye Kpye on May 03, 2017

    We used chicken wire and confederate jasmine, looked and smelled beautiful:)


  • Carol Carol on May 03, 2017

    I brought back Georgia peaches one road trip, thinking I would plant the pits and have my own Georgia 🍑! Well, after about a year, the seedlings came up, had them in pots, and when about two feet tall, planted them in my yard. The leaves looked just like my other real peach tree. After a few years, I realized I have some type of willow trees! Maybe you can plant peach pits to get your willow trees! Happy Planting!

  • Kim Scott Canaday Kim Scott Canaday on May 03, 2017

    That would work! If I got a peach, that would be okay too! Thanks!

  • Carol Carol on May 03, 2017

    Try the local Ag extension. They will usually steer you away from plants that cause problems locally. They may sponsor a plant or seed exchange as well. You can also start a Facebook page for plant/seeds/cuttings. Someone started one in Lincoln, NE and had 57 people in a matter of a couple of weeks. You ask for what you want and tell others what you want to get give away. It seems to be working.

  • Kpye Kpye on May 03, 2017

    It grows very rapidly and it also gets quite heavy so you may need to create a more stable base for a dome shape. I did an arbor, 2 sides, a back and a top to house a concrete bench. made the frame from scrap wood and stapled the chicken wire to it and within a few months it was nearly covered in jasmine!!