Native Trees 

Crack Willow

Salix fragilis

Dormant twig 		Crack willow is one of the most common varieties of native willows. It grows rapidly - up to seventy feet (15-20 m) in twenty years and thrives on wet soils. They are often seen on river banks 

Willow shoots are traditionally used for basket making and this is why many old willows have been pollarded - the top of the tree being cut off to stimulate the tree to produce a mass of slender shoots that can be used for weaving. 

Willow twigs are very distinctive in winter. They are thin, brightly coloured golden or orangey brown, and have small, pointed buds pressed up against the twig itself.


Crack willow leaf
 

 

 

 

 

Female catkins

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