Creeping willow, Dwarf willow, Trailing willow, Rosemary willow
Salix repens
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Creeping willow is valuable for soil stabilization on slopes and in coastal areas due to its extensive root system. It is also a nectar source for pollinators, attracting bees and butterflies. The flexible stems can be used for basketry and weaving. Specific cultivars may offer enhanced ornamental value or growth habits.
Permapeople description
Salix repens, the creeping willow, is a dwarf shrub from the willow family (Salicaceae), growing up to about 1 metre in height. It is native to coastal regions of northern Europe and Asia.
Botanical description
Salix repens is a low-growing, deciduous shrub typically reaching 0.2-1 meter in height, rarely up to 2 meters. It has creeping or prostrate stems that root easily, forming dense mats. The leaves are small, oblong to elliptic, 1-4 cm long, and 0.5-2 cm broad, typically greyish-green due to a covering of silky hairs, though some variants are less hairy. The catkins are produced in early spring, before the leaves, and are 1-3 cm long. They are silvery-grey in color, turning yellowish when the male flowers release pollen. Female catkins develop into small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds with silky hairs for wind dispersal.
Companion planting
Creeping willow is generally a good companion plant for other moisture-loving species. Its soil-stabilizing properties can benefit plants growing on slopes. Avoid planting near plants that prefer dry conditions. It can be used as a groundcover to suppress weeds around larger plants.
Propagation methods
Creeping willow can be propagated by seed, but germination can be variable. Cuttings are a more reliable method. Hardwood cuttings taken in winter or softwood cuttings taken in summer root readily. Layering is also an effective method, as the prostrate stems naturally root where they touch the ground. Division of established plants is also possible.
History and traditions
Traditionally, various parts of willow species, including Salix repens, were used for pain relief due to the presence of salicin, a precursor to aspirin. The bark was sometimes chewed or made into a tea. Specific historical uses of Salix repens itself are less documented than for larger willow species, but it was likely used locally for similar purposes, as well as for crafting small items.
Usage calendar
Flowering: March-May. Cutting propagation: Hardwood cuttings in winter, softwood cuttings in summer. Planting: Autumn or spring. Pruning: Late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and maintain desired shape.