Silky-leaved Osier (Salix x smithiana)

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

Salix x smithiana is a deciduous Tree growing to 9 m (29ft 6in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from March to April. 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, Shoots, Bark/Inner Bark

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, it is a famine food that is only used when all else fails. — Inner bark - raw or cooked.; It can be dried, ground into a powder and then added to cereal flour for use in making bread etc.; A very bitter flavour, it is a famine food that is only used when all else fails.; Young shoots - cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known in a truly wild situation. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)