762 ARBORETUM ET FRUTICETUM BRI'TANNICUM. 
1447. Salix alba. 
for tanning as that of the oak; and it is also used in medicine, in the cure 
of agues, as a substitute for cinchcna; though it is inferior for both pur- 
poses to that of S. Russellidna. As fuel, the wood of this tree is to that of 
the beech as 808 is to 1540; but the old bark makes a very useful fuel ; and 
both it and the wood will burn when green, in which state the wood is said 
to give out most heat. The charcoal is excellent for use in the manufacture 
of gunpowder, and for crayons. The ashes are very rich in alkali, containing 
more than a tenth part of their weight of that salt. In France, a fine blood- 
red colour is obtained from the bark ; and that of the young tree is used in 
the preparation of leather for making gloves. 
It is justly remarked by Mr. Gorrie, that it adds much to the value of the 
Salix Alba, that its propagation and culture are of the most simple description, 
and that it will grow luxuriantly in most soils where other trees make but 
slow progress. According’ to Sang, it will thrive well in high and dry 
