Salix viminalis
Salix viminalis
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Pl. D58D — Salix viminalis
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IOverview
Overview
Salix viminalis, commonly known as osier or willow, is a deciduous shrub native to Turkey-in-Europe and Afghanistan. This plant thrives in moist, wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun for optimal growth and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Known for its edible parts—inner bark, leaves, and shoots—it has been utilized by humans for centuries. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow up to 6 meters tall, making it a notable presence in its habitat. Its adaptability and utility have made Salix viminalis an important species both historically and in modern contexts.
Quick answers
What is Salix viminalis?
Salix viminalis, commonly known as osier or willow, is a deciduous shrub native to Turkey-in-Europe and Afghanistan. This plant thrives in moist, wet conditions and prefers light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It requires full sun for optimal growth and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
What is Salix viminalis 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 viminalis
Clinicaluses · safety · chemistry · dosagemedicinal profile
IIBenefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources
Benefits & evidence
2 claims · 0 sources- Willow species, including Salix viminalis, have been traditionally used in European herbalism to support immune health. A decoction made from the inner bark or leaves may help bolster the body's natural defenses.
Salicylates found in willows are thought to modulate inflammatory responses and enhance immune function, though the specific mechanisms are not fully characterised.
- Salix viminalis is traditionally used in herbal medicine to aid digestion. A tea made from the leaves or inner bark may help soothe digestive discomfort and promote healthy gut function.
The salicylates present in willow species can have a mild anti-inflammatory effect on the gastrointestinal tract, though the exact mechanism for digestive support is not fully understood.
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 viminalis support blend
generaltea
AI returned a direct ingredient list; normalized into one draft blend for editorial review.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Salix viminalis thrives in full sun and prefers moist to wet soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for temperate regions. This plant can reach a height of 6 meters and is known for its edible parts, including inner bark, leaves, and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Salix viminalis for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Salix viminalis in a beginner-friendly manner, focusing on basic care and maintenance.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Salix viminalis sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden fork.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late autumn when the ground is 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 any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and regular watering, especially in dry periods. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant annually in late winter to remove dead or weak branches and encourage new growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Inner barkLeavesShoots
Edible uses: The inner bark, leaves, and shoots of Salix viminalis are edible. Typically, the inner bark is harvested in spring or early summer and can be eaten raw or cooked. The young shoots and leaves are often used fresh in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Skip the flowering catkins, which are not typically consumed.
Other uses:Weaving materialAnimal feedErosion controlTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 30 native
Europe14 regions
native (14)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaCyprusFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyNetherlandsRussiaUkraine
Asia5 regions
native (5)AfghanistanChinaIranIraqKazakhstan
Africa2 regions
native (2)AlgeriaMorocco
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Baltic States, Kriti, Turkey-in-Europe, Altay
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
About this entry
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