Willow
Salix lasiolepis
Also listed as Salix schaffneri, Salix bakeri
Also known as Arroyo Willow
Climate Match for your location
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Arroyo willow is a fast-growing native shrub with slender branches and narrow leaves, thriving in moist riparian areas. It produces catkins in spring and provides excellent erosion control and wildlife habitat.
Why grow it
Arroyo willow establishes quickly in riparian restoration compared to slower-growing native alternatives, making it valuable for erosion control on stream banks and in seasonal wetlands. Its dense branching and root system stabilize soil more effectively than many willows in semi-arid climates, while its early spring catkins support pollinators when few other native shrubs flower.
Watch out for
This species performs best with consistent soil moisture and will decline in prolonged drought without supplemental water; it is not suitable for dry upland sites. Mature plants may require periodic pruning to maintain shape, as vigorous growth can create dense, leggy stands if left unmanaged.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California, Arizona, Mexico
Native to: Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Arroyo willow is a fast-growing native shrub with slender branches and narrow leaves, thriving in moist riparian areas. It produces catkins in spring and provides excellent erosion control and wildlife habitat.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Willow grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Arroyo willow establishes quickly in riparian restoration compared to slower-growing native alternatives, making it valuable for erosion control on stream banks and in seasonal wetlands. Its dense branching and root system stabilize soil more effectively than many willows in semi-arid climates, while its early spring catkins support pollinators when few other native shrubs flower.
Watch out for
This species performs best with consistent soil moisture and will decline in prolonged drought without supplemental water; it is not suitable for dry upland sites. Mature plants may require periodic pruning to maintain shape, as vigorous growth can create dense, leggy stands if left unmanaged.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
California, Arizona, Mexico
Native to: Arizona, California, Idaho, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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