Black Willow (also known as Goodding's Willow, Swamp Willow)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Malpighiales, Family: Salicaceae, Genus: Salix, Species: Salix nigra · Salicaceae (Willow family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Salix nigra
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Salicaceae (Willow family)
Shape
Lanceolate, tapering to a long, slender tip
Size
Approximately 3 to 6 inches long and 0.5 to 1 inch wide, which is typical for this species
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, paler green on the lower surface with no distinct variegation
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent central midrib and fine, closely spaced lateral veins
Texture & Surface
Smooth and glabrous above, sometimes slightly pubescent along the veins underneath
Description
The Black Willow is typically a medium-sized deciduous tree with a somewhat open crown and dark, deeply furrowed bark. It produces slender, tapering leaves that flutter gracefully in the breeze. In spring, it features catkins, followed by small capsules containing cottony seeds.
Key Features
Lanceolate leaves with finely serrate margins, a very long tapering tip, short petioles, and a strong preference for wet habitats alongside twigs that snap easily at the base
Habitat
Wetlands, stream banks, river floodplains, lake margins, and moist lowlands requiring high soil moisture and full sun
Geographic Range
Native to eastern and central North America, extending from New Brunswick west to southern Ontario and Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas
Condition Notes
The specimen shows minor physical wear and tearing at the base consistent with pressing for a herbarium card, but overall exhibits healthy structural features with a good green color grade
Interesting Facts
Black Willow roots play a crucial role in stabilizing riverbanks and preventing soil erosion. Salicin, a compound naturally found in willow bark, served as the historical precursor for the development of aspirin
Medicinal & Uses
Bark extracts have historically been used for their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. The soft, lightweight wood is utilized for utility wood, artificial limbs, and basketry
Ecological Role
Provides critical habitat and food for beavers, deer, and numerous species of insects and birds. Highly effective at riparian buffer stabilization and flood mitigation
Similar Species
Peach-leaved willow (Salix amygdaloides) which has broader leaves with rounded bases, and various other narrow-leaved willow species which can be distinguished by detailed floral or glandular characteristics
Foraging Tips
Look near water sources such as rivers, creeks, and ponds. Companion plants include cottonwoods and sycamores. The best time for leaf collection is late spring through summer when foliage is fully mature
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic, though bark preparations containing high amounts of salicylates should be used with caution by individuals sensitive to aspirin