Southwest Colorado Wildflowers, Salix

From low streams to alpine meadows some form of Willow abounds in the San Juans. But Willows are notoriously difficult and time-consuming to identify because their distinguishing characteristics are numerous and one must observe a number of these characteristics through the growing season to precisely identify the species. Birds and deer don’t seem to mind this identification problem; they use the plant for nesting sites and browse without ever knowing the species. Native Americans utilize willows in basket making (along with the abundant Aromatic Sumac, Rhus aromatica).

"Salix" is Latin for "Willow".

Salix sp (Willow)
Salicaceae (Willow Family)

Foothills, montane. Streamsides. Spring.
Ryman Creek Trail, June 8, 2000.

Downy puffballs that carry the Willow seeds are a common late summer sight along streams and in moist mountain meadows.

Salix brachycarpa (Barrenground Willow)
Salicaceae (Willow Family)

Subalpine, alpine. Wetlands, openings. Spring.
Colorado Trail north of Kennebec Pass, August 21, 2000.

Barrenground Willow is abundant at subalpine and alpine levels, often forming extensive thickets. The upper side of the leaf is darker, blue-green and the lower side is sage green and often hairy. Leaf and catkin size are highly variable. Such high altitude Willows are home to many critters, and leaves and twigs are an important browse. The presence of these Barrenground Willows almost always indicates that soil moisture is high. The same is true for almost all Willows.

"Brachycarpa" is Greek for "short carpel".

Salix exigua (Sandbar Willow)
Salicaceae (Willow Family)

Semi-desert, foothills, montane. Streamsides. Spring.
Highway 145 north of Dolores, August 29, 2000.

Sandbar Willow is very common along streams at lower elevations. It spreads easily from underground roots and thus often forms thickets.

"Exigua" is Latin for "short".

Salix exigua (Sandbar Willow)
Salicaceae (Willow Family)

Semi-desert, foothills, montane. Streamsides. Spring.
Scotch Creek, December 29, 2006.

These seven feet tall Salix line the banks of Scotch Creek. The yellow twigs of Salix and the maroon of Swida sericea are common along montane streams.