weeping willow (Salix x)

Second place champion weeping willow (tied) in Hotchkiss.

Species info:

Leaves: Alternate, long, slender, bright green

Leaflets: N/A (leaves are simple)

Leaf Surface: Smooth

Bark: Main trunk gray and slightly furrowed; one-year-old twigs greenish-yellow

Flowers: Male and female flowers on separate trees; small and inconspicuous

Botanical: Salix x (several hybrids)

Family: Salicaceae

Mature Height: 30 to 40 feet

Canopy Spread: Up to 40 feet

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Graceful, weeping, long-hanging branches; large shade tree

Flowers: Small, inconspicuous

Fruit: Small capsule with cottony seeds (female trees)

Fall Color: Not specified

Water Use: High

Hardiness: Zones 4–6

Wildlife Value: Seeds may feed birds; dense foliage provides cover

Pests/Pathogens: Aphids can be a minor problem; otherwise no major pests

Recommendations for planting: ‘Prairie Cascade’ is considered a tree with potential

Information sources:

• Dirr, Michael,, Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees & Shrubs (Timber Press, 2011).

• Elbert L. Little, The Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Trees -- Western Region

• Michael Kuhns, Trees of Utah and the Intermountain West (Utah State University Press, 1998)