Weeping Willow Tree: Overview, History, and Care

Overview

The weeping willow (Salix babylonica) is instantly recognizable by its gracefully drooping branches and foliage. Often found beside ponds and streams, it adds elegance, beauty, and shade to landscapes.

History

Native to China, the weeping willow is now widely grown in North America. Native Americans used its bark (containing salicylic acid, the precursor to aspirin) to treat headaches.

Identification

Short, stout trunk with long, pendulous branches and narrow green leaves. Small, inconspicuous yellow flowers bloom in April or May.

Growing Conditions

Enjoys full sun to partial shade and thrives in various soils. Fast-growing; propagated in spring by rooting softwood cuttings in deep soil.

Maintenance

Prune overly long branches in late winter or early spring before buds open. Regularly remove crowded branches to maintain a freely weeping form.

Warnings

Invasive roots travel far from the trunk and can damage sewer lines, water pipes, and septic tanks. Susceptible to aphids, tent caterpillars, powdery mildew, crown gall, and canker.

Cultural Note

Claude Monet painted a series of weeping willow scenes to honor fallen French soldiers of World War I.