Black Willow (Salix nigra)
Family : Salicaceae
Zone: 4 - 9
Zone: 4 - 9
Common tree which favors moist to wet soils, native throughout North America. Fast growing tree often used to control soil erosion along stream banks. Can be very large, reaching a height of over 130 ft tall at maturity. Dioecious species with separate male and female trees. Leaves are long and narrow with finally toothed margins. Wood and branches tend to be weak and often break in heavy winds. Willow bark contains a compound called 'salicin' a natural form of aspirin. Willows hybridize readily, often making identification a challenge.