Salix alba White willow (Salicaceae) Deciduous tree

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Salix alba
White willow
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Salix alba plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Salicaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as White willow.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Salix alba
Common Name:  White willow
Family:  Salicaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  25   Mature Width:  10

Habitat:  By streams and rivers, marshes, woods and wet fens on richer soils[17].

Cultivation Notes: A very easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils, including wet, ill-drained or intermittantly flooded soils[1], but prefers a damp, heavy soil in a sunny position[200]. Rarely thrives on chalk[200] and dislikes poor thin soils[186]. Very tolerant of maritime exposure and atmospheric pollution[75, 186]. Trees respond well to coppicing or pollarding[186]. Best planted into its permanent position as soon as possible, trees respond badly to transplanting unless they are moved regularly. The root system is rather agressive and can sause problems with drains[200]. A very important food plant for the caterpillars of many species of butterflies[30] and a good bee plant, providing an early source of nectar and pollen[11]. A very good wildlife habitat, more than 200 species of insects are associated with this tree[24]. There are many sub-species and cultivars in this species[182]. S. alba caerulea is the cricket bat willow, cultivated for its wood[11, 131]. S. alba vitellina. (L.)Stokes. has been cultivated for its very tough stems that are used as tie rods in basket making[123, 131]. The cultivar 'Cardinal' is also grown for its use in basket making[131]. This species is used commercially in papermaking[189]. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus, especially S. fragilis, to which it is closely related[11]. Trees cast a relatively light shade. Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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