Salix commutata
Salix commutata
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Pl. 9F92 — Salix commutata
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IOverview
Overview
Salix commutata, commonly known as the Alaska willow, is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and northern regions of North America. This plant thrives in moist, wet environments and can be found in habitats ranging from Alaska and British Columbia to Idaho, Montana, and parts of Canada such as Alberta and Saskatchewan. Known for its edible properties, the inner bark, leaves, and shoots are all considered safe to consume. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. This willow can reach a height of 3 meters and is hardy in zones 4-8. One distinctive feature of S. commutata is its ability to adapt to various soil types while providing edible parts for use by humans.
Quick answers
What is Salix commutata?
Salix commutata, commonly known as the Alaska willow, is a deciduous shrub native to the Pacific Northwest and northern regions of North America.
What is Salix commutata used for?
Traditionally used for immune support, digestion. Each claim is evidence-rated — see Section II for full citations.
Best for
Top 2 evidence-ranked uses of Salix commutata
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Willow species, including Salix commutata, have been traditionally used in Native American medicine for immune support. A decoction of the inner bark may help bolster the body's natural defenses.
Salicylates found in willows are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can indirectly support immune function by reducing inflammation.
- Willow species like Salix commutata have been traditionally used in European herbalism to aid digestion. A tea made from the leaves may help soothe digestive discomfort.
Salicylates and flavonoids present in willows can act as mild bitters, stimulating digestive secretions and improving gut motility.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Salix commutata support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Salix commutata thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows best in hardiness zones 4-8 and can reach a height of 3 meters. For propagation, use inner bark, leaves, or shoots. This plant is native to regions including Alaska, Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Northwest Territories, Oregon, Saskatchewan, and Washington.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Salix commutata for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Salix commutata in a beginner-friendly environment.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Salix commutata sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the ground is workable but not frozen.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with good drainage. For containers, use a mix of peat moss, perlite, and compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings directly into the garden or a large container. Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, water when the top inch of soil is dry, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts. Remove dead or crossing branches to maintain a healthy shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Inner barkLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The inner bark, leaves, and shoots of Salix commutata are edible. Typically, the inner bark is stripped from young branches and can be eaten raw or cooked. Leaves and shoots are often prepared by boiling before consumption.
Other uses:Soil reclamationDynamic accumulator
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 30 native
Europe11 regions
native (11)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryRussia
Asia2 regions
native (2)AfghanistanChina
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Africa1 region
native (1)Algeria
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, Northwest Territorie, Oregon, Saskatchewan, Washington, Yukon, Altay, Baltic States, Czechoslovakia, East Aegean Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family, common use cases, and growing requirements.
shared use cases
Different families, similar therapeutic role — good for comparing.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Health goals
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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