Salix exigua – “Coyote Willow”

Also Known As: Sandbar Willow, Slender Willow, Narrow-Leaved Willow
Family: Willow (Salicaceae)
Bloom Period: Feb-Mar
Form: Perennial shrub
Habitat: Moist places such as seeps and oases
Leaves: Linear; alternate
Translation: “Salix” is the old Latin name for the willow, and comes from the verb, “to leap or spring,” which describes their rapid growth; “exigua” is Latin for “little,” which this plant is, for its genus
Notes: This plant is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. Pictured here is a male catkin; note the pollen-covered anthers. Compare with Goodding’s Willow (Salix gooddingii), which grows in the same habitat.
Native American Uses: Coyote Willow is a widely distributed species, and everywhere it grew, Native Americans used it in basketry due to its flexibility. The Havasupai also used it to make tongs for harvesting cactus fruit. The Zuni treated sore throats and coughs with an infusion of the bark.
Animal Associations: Shoots, leaves and bark eaten by various animals. Catkins are eaten by the Panamint Chipmunk.