River Willow (Salix fluviatilis)

Family: Salicaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Salix fluviatilis is a deciduous Tree growing to 7 m (23ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Forms extensive thickets and rapidly colonizes sandbars along lowland ponds, lakes and streams in moist sand or gravel overladen with silt. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)