Weeping Willow
Salix babylonica · Salicaceae (Willow family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Lanceolate, long and narrow with a tapered, acuminate tip
Margin
Finely serrate (toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent, raised yellow-green midrib running down the center.
Key Features
Long, narrow lanceolate leaves with finely serrated margins, distinctly drooping or pendulous branchlets, and a strong preference for wet or riparian zones.
Description
The Weeping Willow is a graceful, medium-to-large deciduous tree famous for its dramatic, drooping branches that sweep downward toward the ground. It features furrowed dark gray bark, slender yellowish-green twigs, and narrow lance-shaped leaves that rustle softly in the wind, turning a golden-yellow in autumn before dropping.
Habitat
Found primarily along the banks of rivers, streams, lakes, and other moist or wetland habitats. Prefers full sun and consistently moist, rich soils.
Native Range
Native to dry regions of northern China, but widely cultivated and naturalized in temperate and subtropical regions across the globe.