Goat Willow, Pussy Willow, Great Sallow
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Angiosperms, Class: Eudicots, Order: Malpighiales, Family: Salicaceae, Genus: Salix, Species: Salix caprea · Salicaceae (Willow family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Salix caprea
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Salicaceae (Willow family)
Shape
Ovate to elliptical with a small pointed tip (mucronate)
Size
Approximately 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and 1-2 inches wide; this specimen appears to be on the smaller end of the mature range.
Margin
Crenate to finely serrate, often slightly wavy or undulating
Arrangement
Alternate along the stem
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Deep green on the upper surface with lighter, yellowish-green veins; the underside is typically a pale, grey-green due to dense hairs.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate with a prominent central midrib and reticulate (net-like) secondary veins that are slightly sunken on the upper surface.
Texture & Surface
The upper surface (adaxial) is somewhat rugose (wrinkled) and matte; the lower surface (abaxial) is soft and pubescent/felted with fine grey hairs.
Description
A small deciduous tree or large shrub reaching 6-12 meters. It is famous for its 'pussy willow' catkins that appear in early spring before the leaves. The bark is grey-brown and develops diamond-shaped fissures as it ages.
Key Features
Rugose (wrinkled) upper leaf surface, grey-felted underside, and the characteristic alternate arrangement on yellowish-to-brown twigs.
Habitat
Thrives in various environments including woodland edges, hedgerows, scrubland, and damp areas, though it is more tolerant of dry soils than most other willow species.
Geographic Range
Native to Europe, Western and Central Asia; widely naturalized in parts of North America.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears healthy with good turgor; there is no evidence of rust (Melampsora) or significant insect herbivory visible on the upper surface. Health grade: Excellent.
Interesting Facts
Unlike most willows, Salix caprea does not easily propagate from cuttings. It is dioecious, meaning male and female catkins grow on separate trees.
Medicinal & Uses
Bark contains salicin, a precursor to aspirin, used historically for pain relief and fever. Often used in landscaping for early spring color and for stabilizing soil.
Ecological Role
High ecological value; it is one of the earliest sources of pollen and nectar for bees and other insects in spring. Host plant for many Lepidoptera species.
Similar Species
Salix cinerea (Grey Willow) which has narrower leaves and permanent streaks under the bark; Salix atrocinerea.
Foraging Tips
Look for the soft, silvery catkins in late winter/early spring. In summer, identify by the soft-haired underside of the leaf and its wider shape compared to the 'weeping' willow varieties.
Toxicity Warning
Generally non-toxic to humans, but contains tannins and salicin which can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities. Toxicity level: Non-toxic to Mildly Toxic if ingested.