Salix nigra – Black Willow – 2-Gallon

This is the native alternative to the ubiquitous Weeping Willow (Salix alba) for planting near ponds, streams and wet to moist soils. All willows are great for wildlife – many moths and butterflies feed on the foliage, and songbirds and gamebirds like the Ruffed Grouse depend on catkins in spring and buds during winter for survival. Like all willows, wood can be brittle and it is best planted away from homes and other buildings. Black willow occurs throughout most of eastern North America from Maine to Minnesota south to Texas and Florida. It’s native to Ulster County where it it reasonably common.