Skip to main content

Extension

Open Main MenuClose Main Menu

Common Name: Black Willow

Species Name: Salix nigra Marsh.

Family Name: Salicaceae

Plant Type: Trees

 

 

Plant Facts  
Origin North America
Duration Perennial
Distribution in Oklahoma Throughout the state, except for panhandle
Sun Preference Shade Intolerant
Susceptibility Foliar Diseases

 

 

ID Characteristics

  • Field Identification Characteristics

    Largest native willow, commonly dominant along riparian areas

  • Leaf and Stem Characteristics
    • Plant Height: 12-inch diameter, 50-foot height
    • Leaves: Decidious Broadleaf
    • Leaf Type: Simple
    • Leaf Arrangement: Alternate
    • Leaf Shape: Long, narrowly lance-shaped
    • Stipules: Yes
  • Floral Characteristics
    • Petals: Narrow catkins with yellow hairy scales
    • Petal Number: 0
    • Flower Color: Greenish-yellow
    • Flower Timing: Early Spring
    • Fruit Type: Capsule with small seeds

 

 

Habitat/Ecology  
Habitat Flood plains and valley forests, bordering lakes and streams
Soil Type Wet riparian soils
USDA Cold Hardiness Zone 6 to 8
Successional Stage Early Successional

 

 

MENUCLOSE