Tree Description
Black willows are large trees usually growing to 50 feet in height but sometimes as high as 100 feet. They have one or more trunks with diameters up to 3 feet and an upright branching habit.
Range / Site Description
These trees occur naturally throughout Texas along streams, in wet areas, and on riverbanks, frequently in groups of thickets.
Leaf
The leaves are simple and alternate; about 3” to 6” long and ½” to ¾” wide. They are linear-lanceolate in shape with finely-toothed leaf margins. The leaves are bright green on both sides, and they turn pale yellow in the fall.
Flower & Fruit
Male and female flowers are borne on separate trees as catkins, 1” to 3” long.
The fruit is a long, cylindrical string of capsules, 3” to 4” long. Each capsule contains numerous small seeds with long, silky hairs which enable them to be blown long distances.
Interesting Facts
Willow bark was used by native peoples and early settlers as a headache remedy because it contains salicylic acid, the active ingredient of aspirin.
Species Summary
| Scientific Name: | Salix nigra |
| Secondary Names: | Swamp willow |
| Tree Type: | Deciduous |
| Dimensions: | Height: 50 to 100 feet Trunk Diameter: 3 feet |
| Leaf Structure: | Simple, alternate |
| Leaf Size: | 3-6 inches long and ½-¾ inches wide |
| Leaf Shape: | Linear-lanceolate |
| Leaf Margin: | Finely-toothed |
| Additional Information: | iNaturalist – Black Willow |
Source: Texas A&M Forest Service Trees of Texas – Black Willow