Who of us have not seen a willow tree? Very few people have not been amazed at how easily and how large they grow. The most common variety that we all know is called the “Weeping Willow”. Where did that name come from and why? That is a question I’ve often asked.

            First of all the “weeping willow” is from the genus Salix, which contains approx. 400 species. The “weeping willow” is believed to be a hybrid, a cross between the Chinese and European species – the Peking and white willow.  This is very common for the willow, as they are very cross fertile and it is not uncommon to get a hybrid. This tree is known for its drooping, “weeping” shape. The word weeping can mean: to have slender drooping branches.

            This is one of the fastest growing shade trees as it can actually grow up to 10 ft. a year. People like to plant them by trouble water spots, low lying areas on their property. They are used for helping to prevent ground erosion as their root systems are quite immense. And though they do grow very well in that wet spot, they are also known for with standing drought conditions as well. They can grow in just about any kind of soil conditions. It is not uncommon for a branch that has fallen off to root itself where it lays. So it is very easy to grow.

            But beware, as many people know because of their immense root system they are also know for causing some havoc with underground water and/or sewer lines. The roots can easily penetrate water pipes and cause drainage issues. So while they do make beautiful shade trees, it is usually best to keep them away from the house. These beauties can grow to be 40 or 50 feet tall with a diameter of 2 to 3 ft. The branches can have up to a 35 ft. spread so it needs some room to grow. While it is easy to grow and grows rapidly it has a short life span.

            They are sometimes referred to as an “ornamental” tree. Although that can be a little deceptive as the term ornamental is usually used with reference to plants that are grown in flower beds or as house plants. But when it comes to trees it can also be used because of their shape and appearance. The willow tree is considered to be one of the most beautiful and it will be one of the first trees in the spring to get its leaves and one of the last in the fall to loss its leaves. So thru most of the year it will provide a nice green color to your landscape.

            While the wood can be used to make charcoal, it fact it will often be the source of the charcoal used by an artist, for the most part this tree is known for its beauty and grace. It has a beautiful grain but its wood is not usually used in the construction industry. It is most famous for its use in wicker and basket weaving.  The wood’s ability to absorb shock without splitting makes it very popular for making cricket bats. The Dutch also commonly use this wood for making their clogs.

Thru out the years some folks have found medicinal uses for this magnificent tree. This is because they contain salicylic acid, the precursor to aspirin. In fact this has lead to the very popular non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.

            This tree has quite a following; it is believed that Napoleon Bonaparte found comfort in the shade of one while he was exiled on the island of St. Helena. Then when he died he is said to have buried under this tree. Cuttings from this tree were highly valued by his admirers. There have also been many poems and stories written about this tree. Hans Christian Anderson wrote a story called; Under the Willow Tree. And any of you Harry Potter fans know that there is an ancient tree called the Whomping Willow on the school grounds that provide a hiding place for a secret passageway. There are many cultures that have written about this magnificent tree. Even in the Bible book of Psalms in the 137^th division it says; 'By the rivers of Babylon we sat down and wept when we remembered Zion. There on the willow-trees we hung up our harps.' But it is believed that this is probably referring to the Euphrates Poplar, thus some translations use the word poplar instead of willow.

            The next time you are driving down the road and spot one of these large trees just remember this species of tree has been around for hundreds of years, and is probably one of the most popular trees to have been written about. Or the next hot sunny day when you are seeking for the perfect shade tree remember this “weeping willow”.