Brewer’s Willow
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(Salix breweri)
Brewer’s Willow (Salix breweri)
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© Nicole
CC BY 4.0
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© Nicole
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Nicole | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: pineten | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Summary
Salix breweri, commonly known as Brewer’s Willow, is a deciduous shrub native to the chaparral and riparian zones of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges around the San Francisco Bay Area. It is well-adapted to serpentine soils, which are typically high in heavy metals and low in essential nutrients, making this species important for habitat restoration in these challenging conditions. Brewer’s Willow typically grows to a height of 3 to 13 feet (0.9 to 4 meters) and features yellowish or reddish-brown stems with lance-shaped leaves that are green above and paler beneath.
Brewer’s Willow is valued for its ability to thrive in wet habitats and is often used in riparian restoration projects to stabilize streambanks and provide wildlife habitat. It produces catkins before the leaves emerge, which are an early source of pollen and nectar for insects. The catkins are generally not showy, but they add subtle interest to the early spring landscape. In cultivation, Brewer’s Willow prefers full sun to part shade. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require pruning to manage its size and shape.CC BY-SA 4.0
Brewer’s Willow is valued for its ability to thrive in wet habitats and is often used in riparian restoration projects to stabilize streambanks and provide wildlife habitat. It produces catkins before the leaves emerge, which are an early source of pollen and nectar for insects. The catkins are generally not showy, but they add subtle interest to the early spring landscape. In cultivation, Brewer’s Willow prefers full sun to part shade. It is relatively low-maintenance but may require pruning to manage its size and shape.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
- Height: 6-12 feet
- Width: 6-12 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to chaparral and riparian zones of California, particularly in the Coast Ranges around the San Francisco Bay Area
Other Names
Common Names: Matted Willow
Scientific Names: Salix breweri
GBIF Accepted Name: Salix breweri