exigua

The Coyote Willow is the Western US equivalent of the Eastern Sand-bar Willow (Salix interior). It forms thickets sandy/gravelly sandbars on the edges of streams and rivers. It is a dense clump-forming willow in that it sprouts new shoots from its widely spreading root system. Called Coyote Willow as it provides perfect cover for coyotes hide in. Exigua has long thin stems that are great for basketry, especially if coppiced; but it’s greatest asset is in erosion prevention on the banks of rivers, streams and lakes. The long narrow leaves are very gray and it is really beautiful when in full leaf. In winter it has red to yellow stems that fit perfectly into the red sand/sandstone of the Southwest. Flowers are not very significant.

Click here to see what the USDA has to say about exigua.