Osier Willow (Salix viminalis)
Osier Willow is a multistemmed shrub growing to between 3-6 m (rarely to 10 m) tall. It has long, erect, straight branches with greenish-grey bark.
Useful info about Osier Willow trees
| Latin Name | Salix viminalis |
| Type | Deciduous (loses its leaves in winter) |
| Height | Can grow up to 5 - 10 metres (18 - 35 feet) |
| Spread | The branches can spread out to 5 - 10 metres (18 - 35 feet) |
| Soil Types Preferred | Chalk, Clay, Limestone, Loam, Sand |
| Locations Suitable | Farmland, Gardens, Parks |
| Flowers | Yellow catkins in spring |
| Fruit | Seeds in autumn |
| Celtic Tree Month | April 15 - May 12 |
Similar Species
Description
Osier Willow trees have long and slender leaves, 10-25 cm long but only 0.5–2 cm broad. They are dark green above, with a silky grey-haired underside.
The flowers are catkins, produced in early spring before the leaves; they are dioecious, with male and female catkins on separate plants.
The male catkins are yellow and oval-shaped; the female catkins are longer and more cylindrical; they mature in early summer when the fruit capsules split open to release the numerous minute seeds.
It is commonly found by streams and other wet places.
The exact native range is uncertain due to extensive historical cultivation; it is certainly native from central Europe east to western Asia, but may also be native as far west as southeastern England.
As a cultivated or naturalised plant, it is widespread throughout both Britain and Ireland, but only at lower altitudes.
It is one of the least variable willows, but it will hybridise with several other species.
Uses
Along with other related willows, the flexible twigs (called "withies") are commonly used in basketry, giving rise to its alternative common name of "basket willow".
In the Chilean village of Chimbarongo, it is used to fashion the renowned baskets.
Another increasing use is in energy forestry, effluent treatment, wastewater gardens and water purification.
DISCLAIMER
Any uses for trees or tree extracts, whether edible or medicinal, have not been tried or tested by EFORESTS.
Please take caution and seek proper advice before attempting any recipes or medicinal extracts from any of the trees listed on our site.
Culture and Symbolism
The Osier Willow tree is believed to represent survival, adaptability, fertility and new life.
Willows used to be associated with celebration but they are now associated with sadness and mourning. In northern regions willow branches are used, instead of palm branches, to celebrate Palm Sunday.
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