Willow Catkins
Common Name(s): Black Willow, Goodding Willow, Willow,Black
Species: Salix nigra
Family: Salicaceae
Longevity: Perennial
Origin: Native
Height: 20 m
Flowers: March – April
Fruits: Summer
Description: A small to medium-sized tree widespread along streams, flood plains, pond banks and other sites with wet soil. Easily identified by the finely saw-toothed leaf margins. Can be planted from rootstock or cuttings for erosion control. Native Americans chewed the twigs as a pain reliever. Contains salicylic acid, similar to aspirin (synthesized acetylsalicylic acid). Willow wood was once used as a source of charcoal for gunpowder.