Black Willow
Salix nigra · Salicaceae (Willow and Poplar family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Lanceolate, tapering to a long, sharp point at the apex
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed) along the entire edge
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and fine secondary veins looping near the margin
Key Features
Narrow lanceolate shape, finely toothed margins, long acuminate tip, alternate leaf arrangement, and preference for wet riparian environments
Description
The black willow is a medium to large deciduous tree, often featuring a multi-stemmed, leaning trunk with dark, rough, furrowed bark. It produces slender, drooping branches and catkins in spring. Its narrow, lance-shaped leaves flutter gracefully in the breeze and turn a soft yellow in autumn.
Habitat
Typically found along streambanks, riverbanks, lakeshores, floodplains, and wetland borders; prefers moist to wet soils and full sun
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, extending from New Brunswick west to southern Ontario and Minnesota, and south to Florida and Texas