Salix alba 'Tristis' - The Weeping Willow

 The Weeping Willow 

By Lachlan Royle 

The weeping willow, also sometimes called the golden weeping willow is a very distinctive tree that can be seen around the UK. Its Latin named involves 'Tristis' which means sad. They have a very stout trunk that is then adorned by the recognisable fronds of leaves that drape down towards the ground sometimes even reaching the floor. They are commonly seen near rivers as they thrive with more abundant water sources, unlike many other species of tree they are able to withstand standing water for prolonged periods of time. They also maintain an important role in preventing soil erosion as their roots act as stability for the soil and hold it in place. 

A weeping willow on UEA's grounds

They also act as a refuge for many species of bird and invertebrate, as well as providing pollen for bees and other pollinators, further once the tree sheds its leaves they often fall into the river systems where they can act as a source of nutrients for other organisms. All in all they're quite an important cog in the grand ecological puzzle. Like many trees they have a long lifespan, whilst not being quite as age resistant as other species they can still see out 30 years comfortably. They are also very fast growers with some particularly proficient individuals growing up to 3 feet a year. 

Beyond their natural benefits they have a very rich history of folklore. The Greek's had a goddess called Hecate who was a sorceress that used willow in her water magic. Canonically the Greek poet Orpheus supposedly carried willow branches when he embarked on adventures into the underworld. They also have a rich history of being used for healing, due to the fat that willow regrows very quickly in lots of cultures it is seen as a symbol of immortality. Medicinally infusions of its bark have been used to prevent colds and fevers and young willow twigs were believed to relieve pain if chewed. In fact there was some truth to this as willow contains salicylic acid, which is used to help develop aspirin.