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Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica )

Black Willow ; branch | Stillwater, MN

Though the Weeping Willow thrives many of Minnesota's lakes, ponds, and rivers, its native home is in Asia. The Weeping Willow is extremely easy to recognize, as their flexible, draping boughs have earned them their common name. Though they are widespread due to cultivation, the Weeping Willow is not as prodigiously flood-tolerant and freeze-hardy as our native Black Willow. It prefers the well-drained soil of hills just above the water table. As such, it is not considered a noxious or invasive species in most areas.

Weeping Willow facts:

• Don't plant Weeping Willows near buried pipes or power lines. As the Willow grows, its roots will wrap around the pipes and crush them.
• The bark of the Weeping Willow used to be used as an analgesic.
• Weeping Willow boughs are easily broken, and can often be found scattered by wind.
• Weeping Willows can grow from 'cuttings'. Cut one of its young, green twigs (make sure that it is at least 8" long, and be sure to cover the wound on the tree in a grafting compound to avoid infection), and soak the base of the twig in a glass of water. In about two weeks, the twig will begin to grow roots of its own, and may be planted.

Multimedia:

Weeping Willow ; spring profile | Stillwater, MN	Weeping Willow ; summer profile | Stillwater, MN	Weeping Willow; fall colors| Stillwater, MN
Weeping Willow ; bark | Stillwater, MN

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