Salix purpurea Purple osier (Salicaceae) Deciduous tree

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Salix purpurea
Purple osier
Deciduous tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Salix purpurea plant species is found in Britain. It is a member of the Salicaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Purple osier. Some home gardeners know the variety as S. helix. non L.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Salix purpurea
Common Name:  Purple osier
Family:  Salicaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  5   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Wet places in lowland areas[13, 17], preferring neutral or alkaline soils[186].

Medicinal Information: The bark is anodyne, antiinflammatory, antiperiodic, antiseptic, astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic, febrifuge, hypnotic, sedative and tonic[4, 9, 21]. It is a very rich source of salicin, which is used in making aspirin[199]. The bark of this species is used interchangeably with S. alba. It is taken internally in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, gout, inflammatory stages of auto-immune diseases, diarrhoea, dysentery, feverish illnesses, neuralgia and headache[238]. The bark is removed during the summer and dried for later use[238]. The leaves are used internally in the treatment of minor feverish illnesses and colic[238], cancerous sores and chronic dysentery[218]. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and are used fresh or dried[238]. The twigs are used in the treatment of cancer, dysentery and ulcers[218]. The bark of the stem and roots is anodyne and styptic[218]. It is used in the treatment of rheumatism[218].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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