Prairie Willow

(Salix humilis)

Other Names:
None known

Range:


Family:
Salicaceae – Willow family

Growth Type:
A small deciduous woody shrub that grows in thickets.

Height:
S. humilis grows to approximately 12 feet tall.

Leaves:
The lanceolate leaves are grey-green to blue-green in color.

Stem/Trunk:
The bark on the stems is yellowish to brown in color.

Root:
The roots of all species are extremely flexible and strong.

Flower Season:
Early spring

Flower Appearance:
Silky green catkins approximately 3 to 6 cm long.

Seed/Fruit:
Not observed.

Miscellaneous characteristics:
N/A

Habitat:
Moist soils of swamps, dense woods, stream banks, or yards.

Parts Used:
Buds, catkins, Inner bark of trunk, root, or twigs.

Culinary Uses:
While not great tasting, the buds are edible when they emerge. So too is the inner bark. Both can be eaten raw, or as a cooked vegetable. These should only be considered a survival food.

The following text is meant for informational purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or injury. Always consult with a physician or other qualified medical care provider concerning the diagnosis and treatment of any illness or injury.

Medicinal Uses:
Salix spp., contain salicylic acid, the forerunner of modern aspirin. A pain-relieving tea can be brewed from the inner bark of the willow. The caveat I would offer about Salix species, is that the Salicylate levels can vary greatly from species to species, as well as from individual to individual within the same species. If you find a tree that works well for you, keep using it. If at first you do not succeed, keep trying until you find one with enough salicin to alleviate your symptoms.

Medicinal Actions:
Analgesic, Antiarthritic, Anti-Inflammatory, Febrifuge, Odontalgic, Stomachic