Black Willow
Salix nigra
Tree Coming Soon
Black Willow is a fast-growing Virginia native local-ecotype tree of streambanks, floodplains, pond edges, and other moist places. Its early flowers support pollinators, while its foliage and structure provide important habitat for wildlife.
About This Plant
- Sun Exposure
- Full Sun, Part Shade
- Soil Moisture
- Medium to Wet, Wet
- Height
- 30-60 ft
- Spread
- 20-40 ft
- Bloom Time
- Early Spring, Mid Spring
- Bloom Color
- Yellow-green; inconspicuous
- Garden Uses
- Streambank; pond edge; wetland restoration; rain garden; wildlife habitat; erosion control
Black Willow grows best in full sun or part shade where soil stays moist to wet. It is especially useful along streams, ponds, and wet areas, where its extensive root system helps stabilize soil. Like other native willows, it is an important host plant for many caterpillars and contributes strongly to the food web.
Good to know: Fast-growing native willow for wet soils; extensive roots help stabilize streambanks and moist sites.