Willow

Willow is a type of tree or shrub that belongs to the genus Salix, in the family Salicaceae. There are around 400 species of willow that can be found all over the world, except in Australia and Antarctica.

Description

Willows are deciduous plants, which means they shed their leaves annually. They are usually found in cold and temperate regions and are known for their ability to grow in a variety of soil types, including those that are wet or poorly drained.

Willows have slender branches and large, fibrous, often stoloniferous roots. The leaves are typically elongated, but may also be round to oval, frequently with serrated edges.

Uses

Willows have many uses. They are often planted on the banks of streams to help control erosion. Some species are used for forestry because they grow rapidly and can be harvested for wood within 10 years.

In medicine, the bark of some species contains salicin, a compound that is chemically similar to aspirin. This has been used for centuries to relieve pain and reduce fever.

Species

There are many species of willow, including:

• Salix alba (white willow)
• Salix babylonica (weeping willow)
• Salix fragilis (crack willow)
• Salix purpurea (purple willow)

See also

• List of Salix species
• Populus (poplars, cottonwoods)

References

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