24 Xntive Trees of Kentucky 



B. Wn.mws GENUS SAI.IX. 



There are three species native to Kentucky : 



a. Black Willow Salix nigra. 



b. Longleaf Willow Salix rluviatilis. 



c. Pussy Willow Salix discolor. 



The Willows are medium sized trees, characterized by short, 

 thick trunks, manv low branches, and furrowed, scaly bark. The 

 leaves are typically long and slender, short stemmed, tapering at 

 both ends, showing a variety of greens. As the stumps sprout 

 easily and the twigs root freely, the problem of reproduction 

 among Willows is simple. This rapid growth, sturdiness and 

 extensive branching make Willows valuable for wind-break plant- 

 ing. 



The bark yields an important drug. 



Next to Oaks, Willows have more natural enemies among 

 scales, borers and leaf eaters than any other trees, while the 

 havoc among them from fungus diseases is of economic im- 

 portance. 



