Salix flabellaris, commonly known as Fan-Leaved Willow, is a deciduous shrub native to riparian zones, wetlands, and moist areas in Asia, including regions of China and Japan. It is characterized by its rapid growth rate and typically reaches a height of 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) with a similar spread of 8-15 feet (2.4-4.6 meters). The shrub has a rounded form with multiple stems and bears narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The green or yellow flowers are catkins, which appear in early spring before the leaves and are not particularly showy. However, the plant is valued for its ability to stabilize soil and its use in riparian restoration projects.

Fan-Leaved Willow thrives in wet conditions and is often used for erosion control along streambanks and in wetland gardens. It is also suitable for creating natural screens or hedges in large landscape areas. This willow prefers full sun to part shade and grows best in medium to slow draining loam or clay soils that are consistently moist or wet. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can suffer from willow scab and other fungal diseases, and its aggressive root system may cause problems if planted near sewer lines or foundations.CC BY-SA 4.0