SALIX EXIGUA / SANDBAR WILLOW

SALIX EXIGUA / SANDBAR WILLOW

A Native Shrub Willow with Slender Stems and Wet-Site Adaptability

Salix exigua, commonly known as Sandbar Willow, is a native deciduous shrub valued for its narrow, flexible stems, fine-textured foliage, and rapid growth. Thriving in full sun with moist to wet soils, Sandbar Willow is ideal for riparian plantings, streambanks, and naturalized landscapes. Its tolerance of wet soils and ability to establish quickly make it a versatile and ecologically important native shrub.

Why Choose Sandbar Willow?

Rapid Growth: Quickly establishes dense thickets for erosion control and habitat.
Wildlife Friendly: Catkins provide early nectar for pollinators; stems and foliage offer cover for birds.
Wet-Site Tolerant: Thrives along rivers, streams, and low-lying areas.
Low Maintenance & Hardy: Adaptable to a range of soil types and conditions.

Key Features:

Foliage Color: Narrow, medium green leaves; yellow in fall.
Flower Color: Yellow catkins appearing in early spring.
Height and Spread: Typically grows 10–15 feet tall and 8–15 feet wide.
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zones 2–7.
Sunlight: Prefers full sun.
Soil Requirements: Moist to wet soils; tolerates sandy, loam, or clay soils.

Specifications:

Plant Size: 10–15 feet tall, 8–15 feet wide.
Growth Habit: Upright, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 2–7.
Flowering: Early spring catkins.
Fall Interest: Leaves turn yellow in autumn.

Ideal Uses:

Riparian & Wetland Plantings: Perfect for stabilizing streambanks and low-lying wet areas.
Naturalized Landscapes: Forms dense, informal thickets for habitat and visual interest.
Wildlife Gardens: Supports pollinators and provides cover for birds and small mammals.
Erosion Control: Fast-growing root system stabilizes soil along water edges.

Sandbar Willow is a hardy and ecologically valuable native shrub. Its rapid growth, wet-site tolerance, and wildlife benefits make it an excellent choice for riparian restoration, naturalized landscapes, and wildlife-friendly gardens.