Salix pentandra

Common name: Bay willow, Laurel willow

Description: large shrub or tree; 6- 15 metres (20-50'); glossy reddish-brown annual growth; leaves can be 12 cm long x 5 cm wide

Ideal conditions: full sun to shade; moist soil but drought tolerant once established; found in nature along streams and in low, moist areas

Coldest Zone: 4 (find your zone; further info on plant hardiness)

Large specimens of Bay willow can be found in southern England, planted for their ornamental value. The bark on the mature trees is grey and lightly fissured. The large glossy broad leaves and the glass-like brown branchlets are an eye-catching feature. It is also good for basketry.

Sizes available: bundle of 10 cuttings

Canadian price list   ||   US price list

This main picture was taken in October and is of a group of two year old plants that are coppiced in the late winter every year.

Comparison of willow stems and leaves

Lists of various willow uses