wilgenbast

Wilgenbast is a natural fiber derived from the inner bark of willow trees, belonging to the genus Salix. It is one of the traditional bast fibers, similar in category to flax or hemp, but produced by willows rather than herbaceous plants.

Production and properties

The fiber is obtained by harvesting willows (often coppiced varieties such as Salix viminalis, the osier), removing the outer bark, and processing the inner bark to separate the bast fibers. Retting and mechanical decortication loosen and release the fibers, which are then cleaned and sometimes spun into yarns or used directly as cordage. Wilgenbast fibers are typically soft, flexible, and relatively fine, with properties that vary by species and processing method. They are slower to produce on a large commercial scale compared with major bast fibers, but can be suitable for artisanal textiles and craft applications.

Uses and history

Historically, wilgenbast has been used in basketry, wickerwork, and light textile applications in regions where willows are common. Today, its use is mainly concentrated in traditional crafts, small-scale textile experiments, and sustainable or decorative materials. The fiber is valued for being renewable and capable of seasonal coppicing regrowth, aligning with craft cultures that emphasize local, low-impact resources.

Species and cultivation

Common willow species for bast production include Salix viminalis (osier), along with other Salix varieties grown for baskets and live fencing. Willows grow quickly, especially in damp soils, and are often managed through coppicing to provide regular bark harvests without clear-cutting the stand. Quality and yield depend on growing conditions, harvest timing, and processing techniques.