Salix nigra/Black Willow

A natural stand of black willows along a highway adjacent to a roadside ditch
View Image (Full)

A natural stand of black willows along a highway adjacent to a roadside ditch	Early spring flowers just as the foliage begins to emerge	Part of a canopy in full spring bloom
Spring flowers


Scientific Name:	Salix nigra
Common Name:	Black Willow
Plant Type:	Deciduous
Leaf Type:	Broadleaf
Hardiness Zone:	5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 Determine Your Zone
Height:	20-30 feet
Spread:	20- 30 feet
Bloom time:	Spring
Flower color:	Yellow
Fruit present:	Summer
Fruit color:	White
Light Exposure:	Sun, Part Sun, Filtered Shade, Morning sun
Drainage:	Well drained, Moist, Wet,
Rate of Growth:	Fast
Water Requirement:	Medium
Maintenance Level:	Medium
Susceptible to insects and diseases:	Yes

Comments:	This deciduous tree is prevalent along water edges and other moist sites over much of the U.S. It is an pioneer woody species in natural succession of wetlands. This tree is relatively short lived, has brittle wood and dieback of twigs and branches makes it a high maintenance tree in well groomed landscapes. Considered a nuisance in cultivated fields. This is one tree that fill soil can be placed several feet up the trunk and the tree continues to live.