Snyder Preserve - Salix gooddingii

Photos by Addie Leimroth

 

Family: Salicaceae
 
Compound: Sal goo
 
Synonyms: Salix nigra var. vallicola, Salix vallicola, Salix gooddingii var. vallicola, Salix gooddingii var. variabilis
 
Geographic Origin: southwestern US, northern MX
 
Characteristics: This is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree that usually grows to ~15.25m (50ft) but can reach heights of up to 30.5m (100ft). It has a broad, open canopy with many branches. The young bark is smooth and gray, becoming thick, and deeply furrowed with age. The finely toothed leaves are lanceolate, bright green, and glossy, up to 10.15cm (4in) long, arranged alternately on the stem. This species is particularly noted for its early spring catkins, which are yellow and pendulous, appearing after the leaves have fully developed.
 
Natural History: Found in riparian zones and wet meadows in arid and semi-arid regions up to 2286m (7,500ft). It provides significant cover and nesting sites for birds, and its catkins are an important food source for pollinators.
 
Cultivation Notes: Goodding's willow is best suited for large landscape areas with ample water where it can spread its roots, especially in riparian restoration projects. It prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soils but can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions, including periodic flooding. Regular watering is essential, particularly in drier environments. It can be propagated easily from seeds or cuttings, which root quickly in moist soil.
 
For general plant propagation information, click here 
 
Ethnobotany: Goodding's willow is an important ecological species, used in habitat restoration and erosion control. Traditionally, various parts of the willow, including the bark, have been used in native medicine for pain relief due to their salicylic acid content.
 
Citations:
 
U.S. Forest Service. Retrieved April 30, 2024.
 
Southwest Desert Flora. Retrieved April 30, 2024.
 
SEINet Arizona – New Mexico Chapter. Retrieved April 30, 2024.