Beak Willow, Bebb Willow

Salix bebbiana

Physical Characteristics

Salix bebbiana is a deciduous Shrub growing to 7 m (23ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen in June. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist or wet soil.

Distribution

N. America - Newfoundland to Alaska, south to California.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Astringent Febrifuge Poultice A poultice of the chewed root inner bark has been applied to a deep cut[257]. The shredded inner bark has been used as sanitary napkins to 'heal a woman's insides'[257]. A poultice of the damp inner bark has been applied to the skin over a broken bone[257]. A decoction of the branches has been taken by women for several months after childbirth to increase the blood flow[257]. A poultice of the bark and sap has been applied as a wad to bleeding wounds[257]. The fresh bark of all members of this genus contains salicin[226], which probably decomposes into salicylic acid (closely related to aspirin) in the human body[213]. This is used as an anodyne and febrifuge[226].

Known Hazards

None known