White Willow
Salix alba
Also known as Cricket-bat Willow
Climate Match for your location
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A large, fast-growing deciduous tree with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and graceful, drooping branches. Native to Europe and western Asia, white willow thrives in wet areas and is commonly planted near water features.
Why grow it
White willow grows faster and taller than many other willows, reaching 50-80 feet, making it useful for rapid screening or riparian restoration in wet sites. Its tolerance for poor drainage and periodic flooding exceeds that of most deciduous shade trees, though it requires significantly more water than drought-tolerant alternatives. The fine texture of its foliage and weeping branch habit offer distinct aesthetic qualities compared to upright willows or other waterside species.
Watch out for
Root systems are vigorous and opportunistic, requiring distance from septic systems, drainage lines, and building foundations. Expect regular pruning needs to maintain form and manage branch breakage during storms, particularly in exposed sites. Wood quality is relatively soft and brittle compared to oaks or maples, so avoid planting over structures or high-traffic areas where branch failure poses risk.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A large, fast-growing deciduous tree with narrow, lance-shaped leaves and graceful, drooping branches. Native to Europe and western Asia, white willow thrives in wet areas and is commonly planted near water features.
Climate Match for your location
See how well White Willow grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
White willow grows faster and taller than many other willows, reaching 50-80 feet, making it useful for rapid screening or riparian restoration in wet sites. Its tolerance for poor drainage and periodic flooding exceeds that of most deciduous shade trees, though it requires significantly more water than drought-tolerant alternatives. The fine texture of its foliage and weeping branch habit offer distinct aesthetic qualities compared to upright willows or other waterside species.
Watch out for
Root systems are vigorous and opportunistic, requiring distance from septic systems, drainage lines, and building foundations. Expect regular pruning needs to maintain form and manage branch breakage during storms, particularly in exposed sites. Wood quality is relatively soft and brittle compared to oaks or maples, so avoid planting over structures or high-traffic areas where branch failure poses risk.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native Range
Europe and western Asia
Seasonality
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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