Weeping Willow

Full Sun, Partial Sun/Shade

Acidic, Alkaline, Clay, Drought, Loamy, Moist, Rich, Sandy, Well Drained, Wet

This tree provides browse food for rabbits, beavers, and big game such as deer. It also provides nesting sites for numerous small birds and mammals.

The weeping willow is dramatic both in appearance and history. Few trees add as much grace to the landscape. Early in the history of interstate commerce, cuttings from this popular species were carried along the trade routes from China. Its occurrence along the Euphrates River eventually fooled the famous botanist, Linnaeus, into thinking this was the willow of biblical mention, so he gave it the scientific name of babylonica. Later, it was the shade of a weeping willow that helped comfort Napoleon during his exile on the Island of St. Helena. After Napoleon was buried under his favorite tree, cuttings from it became a valued prize among his admirers worldwide.