Wierzba

Wierzba (Salix) is a genus of deciduous trees and shrubs in the family Salicaceae, comprising hundreds of species commonly referred to as willows. In Polish usage, "wierzba" denotes willow in general, with several well-known species such as wierzba biała (Salix alba), wierzba krucha (Salix fragilis) and wierzba płacząca (Salix babylonica). The latter is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree.

Willows are typically fast-growing, with slender trunks and highly flexible branches. Leaves are alternate, simple, narrow-lanceolate, and finely serrated. Flowers appear before or with the leaves in early spring; male and female catkins develop separately on dioecious plants.

Native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, willows are common along rivers, wetlands, and other moist habitats. They tolerate wet soils and can spread quickly in suitable conditions. Due to horticultural use, many species have been introduced beyond their native ranges.

Willows readily sprout from cuttings and roots, enabling coppicing. They contribute to bank stabilization, erosion control, and habitat creation. They are used in agroforestry, land reclamation, and landscaping.

Wood is valued for wickerwork, baskets, fencing, and small carpentry projects. Bark contains salicin, a chemical related to aspirin, historically used in medicine. Ornamental willows, such as the weeping willow, are popular in parks and along water features.

Most common willow species are widespread, but some may be locally threatened by habitat loss, water management, or overexploitation. Invasive tendencies can occur where species spread beyond native ranges.