The Willow Tree (Salix sp.)

Abstract

"There is a willow grows aslant a brook That shows his hoar leaves in the glassy stream". SHAKESPEARE. AMONG the many trees which adorn the countryside of Britain, this tree is one of the best known, and especially to those whose lives have been spent from earliest childhood in the country. A great many people have earned their livelihood in one way and another from its products, but those who have interested themselves in conserving or replenishing the stock are far too few, and almost entirely confined their attention to the bat willow, although perhaps with the exception of the ash tree the willow is one of those which will repay the planter within the least number of years. The fisherman, the basket-maker, and the gipsy are very intimate with the particular species which they knew about, the first -named because of his continued controversy with the overhanging branches which interfere with his sport, but the latter since it has contributed to their livelihood.