Willows
- Salix spp.
Family: Salicaceae
THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
Description
Willows are trees and shrubs of wet or moist habitats. They have simple
alternate deciduous leaves that are usually lance-shaped, entire or toothed
along the margins. The petioles are much shorter than the blades, sometimes
with glands at the summit. Male and female flowers are produced separately
in densely flowered catkins that appear before or immediately after the
leaves unfold. The fruits are small, cone to lance-shaped capsules, 2-valved,
sessile or stipitate. Willows are extremely difficult to distinguish from
one another. Much variation occurs within a species and relatively small
differences separate species. They also tend to hybridize resulting in
intermediate characteristics.
Interesting facts
Willows occur in floodplains, along streambanks, lake and pond borders,
wet meadows, ditches, swamps, fens, and other moist places. They may form
dense stands by putting out root shoots.
Thick monocultures can become established in almost any area with available
moisture. Root systems often interfere and cause problems with water supply
and drainage systems, i.e., water mains, sewer systems, culverts, etc.
Links to more information
Website, video, and graphics by Rob Nelson
For more information on this plant or management please contact US Army Corp of Engineers
Willow Videos
Was this handy? Share this page with friends.
|
 |