Salix nigra (Black Willow)

A genuine keystone species for riparian ecosystems, black willow anchors an astonishing roster of wildlife value - the Salix genus as a whole supports 399 documented species of butterflies and moths as larval hosts, with this species specifically confirmed of special value to native bees, bumble bees, and honey bees by the Xerces Society.

Species Overview

Salix nigra, or black willow, is the largest and most important New World willow, a fast-growing deciduous tree reaching 30 to 90 feet with dark brown to black, deeply furrowed bark. Strongly associated with rivers, floodplains, and wetlands, its extensive root system makes it a proven tool for erosion control and shoreline stabilization.

Application

• Riparian buffer and streambank stabilization - extensive root system controls erosion
• Wetland and floodplain restoration - keystone species
• Larval host habitat supporting a share of the Salix genus's 399 documented Lepidoptera species
• Live-staking for erosion control on levees and stream banks

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Consistently moist to wet soils; tolerant of flooding and silting
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Plant Type: Tree
• Mature Height: 50-80 ft.
• Fall Color: Yellow
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACW - not confirmed AGCP-specific, see flags
• Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
• Hydrology: Moist-Wet
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.) (adventitious roots develop rapidly from cuttings for streambank anchorage)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Some
• Flood Tolerance: High - A core floodplain and wetland tree species; appears on a formal wetland plant reference list.
• Shade Tolerance: Intolerant
• Growth Habit: Upright, Multi-stemmed
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports specialist/oligolectic bees, supports butterflies, supports moths

Planting Guidance

• Wood is weak and structurally poor but does not split when nailed - valued historically for charcoal used in gunpowder production. Bark, twigs, and buds are browsed by deer, rabbits, and beaver.