RED WILLOW

Species Name: Salix laevigata
Family: Salicaceae (willow family)
Plant Type: Broad-leaf tree



Description:  Tree or shrub, stems slender, flexible, most hairy, bark reddish or yellowish brown, height to 50 feet, some species spread by roots (developing clonal thickets), deciduous.



Leaf:  Elliptical, slender or wide (almost ovate), length variable (2-6 inches), hairy, one central vein, margins smooth or toothed, tip pointed or rounded.



Flower:  February-May, dioecious (separate sex trees), female and male catkins on leafy shoot, length 1- 4 inches, appear just before or with leaves.

Fruit/Seed:  Dry, 2 part fruit, length 1/4-1/3 inch, contains many tiny seeds.  Seeds disperse by wind and water.

Typical Location:  Active channel, streamsides, marshes, wet ditches, springs; elevations below 9,000 feet.

Revegetation Approach:  Container or cutting.

Key Notes:  Accurate identification requires an understanding of flower characteristics.  Distinguish from mulefat (Baccharis salicifolia) by leaf vein pattern.

Notes:  Excellent for streambank stabilization and habitat restoration.  Dense growth provides excellent cover for aquatic organisms, terrestrial wildlife and birds.  Native Americans used stems in basketry and bow making.  Willows produce salicin, a chemical similar to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin).