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Bay willow

A willow with a northern distribution in the UK. Its leaves can be easily confused with the bay tree- whose leaves are used to flavour stews and other dishes. Its name, given to it by John Ray in 1690, reflects the similarity of the leaves to the bay tree.

What other names does it have?

Can also be known as
  • Black willow (Ireland)
  • Sweet willow (Cumbria)
  • Willow bay (Staffordshire)
  • French sally (Donegal)
Generic nameWillow
Latin nameSalix pentandra
Family nameWillow
Latin family nameSaliceceae

What type of tree is it?

Is it a broadleaf or conifer?It is a broadleaf
Does it lose its leaves in autumn?Yes, it is deciduous

Species description:

Average height12-18m

Leaf

DescriptionThick and shiny leaves, so glossy they almost look varnished. The leaves are finely toothed/serrated and produce a yellow gum which smells like a bay leaf.
ShapeOval
ColourDark green
Leaf budGlossy brown in colour
Leaf stalkShort stalk
Leaf arrangementAlternate

Flower, seed, and fruit

Type of flowerCatkin
Tree/flower sexBoth sexes
Fruit colourGreen ripening to brown
Type of seed bodyCatkin
Seeds dispersed by
  • Wind

Bark and twig

Bark descriptionDark grey in colour with scaly criss-cross ridges.
Twig DescriptionGlossy green-brown in colour and hairless

Where is it usually found?

Is it native or non-native to the British Isles?Native
Where is its natural range?North England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and North Wales.
Preferred soil type or environmental conditions?A mountainous prefering nothern areas. Found by rivers and in wet woodland. Occasionally planted in southern England.
What is its British conservation status?Common

Additional information

Tree lore and folkloreAll willows were seen as trees of celebration in biblical times but this had changed over time and now the willows are associated with sadness and mourning. Classical poems often refer to willow in this way and it is repeated in art with Ophelia drowning herself near a willow. It is suggested that the bitter taste of willow gave it this assocation.

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dark low crown

Bay willow dark glossy leaves

Illustrations supplied by
Collins

Collins Tree Guide