A Willow’s Place

Willows (genus salix) are a riparian species whose presence serves a myriad of important functions in the wild. Animals of all types use them as nests, building materials, and sources of food. Their root systems strengthen stream banks and prevent erosion. They’ve even been found to aid in environmental restoration efforts. This is a brief exploration of only some of the crucial roles willow play in their natural environment.

A Riparian Species

A riparian zone is the area where a stream and land interact. Their presence aid in reducing the impacts of floods, act as a filter for surface runoff, and provide shelter. Willows are vital to these efforts. The roots they develop tend to be shallow and reaching, grasping the earth beneath them like a hand. The shade they provide moderates the temperature of streams which greatly benefits aquatic organisms. While considered riparian, willows are by no means locked in to these zones. From the side of Mount Aso in Japan to the depths of the Grand Canyon, they do well in almost any soil type as long as water is available.

These areas are increasingly at-risk due to the infringement of humans. Let’s face it: we can’t pave the earth and expect there to be no repercussions.

Credit: Project Watershed

Animal Ally

Animals utilize willow for many things. Reaching willow boughs provide shade and flood events tend to erode stream bed around a willow which create the ideal habitat for fish. The boughs above are home to any number of birds. Grazing herbivores of all kinds will browse the new growth of a willow. Animals of all sizes, from rabbits to cattle, benefit. In addition to being a food source, the plant contains salicylic acid which serves as a pain/inflammation reducer. Beavers, one of the most important keystone species, weave willow branches into their dams.

Speaking of keystone species: one of willow’s most important allies are insects. A willow’s seed pod is called a “catkin”. Willows produce many, many catkins. Some more than others but every willow does. These catkins are a massive boon to pollinators of every kind.

Want to be an Animal Ally too? Simply plant some willows along your local stream.

Photo: Angela Kircsh

The Environmental Fulcrum

A willow is tenacious and vigorous. It helps to reduce the negative effects wrought upon the environment. Once rooted, they will bounce back from almost anything. This tenacity makes them ideal for life along turbulent waters and beyond. During floods, their presence reduces the velocity of the water which reduces the severity of the event. Their root structure grabs at the ground underneath of them which also mitigates streambed erosion. They shrug off damaged limbs which spur more growth at the site of the damage. Shed limbs and twigs can even grow to become their own tree if they find purchase downstream. Once fully established, their vigor allows them to outgrow almost any loss be it from animals, insects, or storms.

Recently they’ve been found to be beneficial at man-made environmental disaster sites. Their roots pull heavy metals out of the ground that inhibit the growth of more delicate, susceptible plants in a process called “phytoremediation”.

Source: NRCS Publication

Closing Thoughts

Willows are often overlooked in modern society. The role it plays in the evolution of our human species has been nearly forgotten, along with the role it plays in nature. They can be an ornamental beauty or a toxin-transporting workhorse. Calling it a “miracle” tree may be a bit dramatic. I would, however, call it one of the most important tree or shrub species on our planet…though I may be a bit biased.

Aric