Goat willow or sallow catkins

When the catkins of the Goat Willow or Sallow (Salix caprea) first start to open they have characteristics that remind me of insects. This small tree is one of the "spring willows" that bear flowers before the leaves have appeared, usually in March. It gets one of its names from the leaves being a favourite food of the domestic goat. "Summer willows" bloom later, at the time of, or after, coming into leaf, and include the crack willow and the white willow.

photos © T. Boughen     Camera: Olympus OMD E-M10

Goat Willow catkins

Along the River Wye in Herefordshire the goat willow (Salix caprea) are displaying their catkins. Many species of trees have flowers in the form of catkins including hazel, alder, silver birch, white poplar and walnut, as well as willow. The goat willow is also known as the great sallow and pussy willow. The trees growing by the Wye provides a useful service by anchoring the bank and slowing its erosion. In the past it was known for its medicinal value in reducing fever, acting as a pain killer and for its anti-inflammatory properties. It was also a source of charcoal, particularly for use by artists.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Lumix FZ1000 2