sandbar willow - salix interior 

Common Name: sandbar willow

Scientific Name: 
Family: Salicaceae
Genus: Salix
Species: interior

Hardiness Zone: 3 
Height: 5 to 10 ft
Width: 5 to 10 ft

Description:

Sandbar willow is a medium shrub often found along lakes and riverbanks through much of the Western and Northeast US and the Northern Great Plains. Leaves are narrow with serrated edges and a smooth, green surface. It spreads aggressively, and may become invasive in some regions. It has the potential to quickly overtake habitats of more desirable plants. In its native range, it is a valuable species to wildlife. Various bird species use sandbar willow for shelter, and it provides forage for deer. 

A common use for Salix interior is erosion control. It may be used in stream bank and lake shore restoration projects, and is well suited to growth in areas with a high water table. Once it is planted, little to no care is required. 

Citations

"Sandbar Willow". USDA NRCS Northeast Plant Materials Program. Edited 05 Feb 2002. https://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_sain3.pdf​. Accessed 19 May 2018. 

"Sandbar Willow". North Dakota State University Agriculture and Extension. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/trees/handbook/th-3-65.pdf. Accessed 19 May 2018.
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