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Narrowleaf Willow
Narrowleaf Willow botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

Narrowleaf Willow

Salix exigua
In the United States: Native · also called Coyote willow, Sandbar willow

Honeybees visit narrowleaf willow primarily for its abundant, protein-rich pollen from male catkins and moderate nectar supplies in early spring, aiding brood rearing when few other blooms are available. Peak bloom aligns with mid-spring in temperate climates, lasting a few weeks. It thrives in moist, sunny riparian zones and benefits from coppicing to boost catkin production, though it spreads readily via root suckers requiring containment in managed landscapes.

Nectarmedium
Pollenhigh
Bloom (US) April–May
TypePerennial
Sunfull
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