Weeping Willow

Common Name: Weeping Willow
Scientific Name: Salix babylonica
Family: Salicaceae

General Facts:

• Native to dry areas of northern China, but cultivated for millennia elsewhere in Asia
• Popular ornamental tree

Medical Facts:

• The leaves and bark of the willow tree have been mentioned in ancient texts from Assyria, Sumer and Egypt as a remedy for aches and fever.
• This is because they contain salicylic acid, the precursor to aspirin

Interesting Facts:

• The willow is a famous subject in many East Asian nations' cultures particularly painting (pen and ink) in China and Japan
• In English folklore, a willow tree is believed to be quite sinister, capable of uprooting itself and stalking travelers

Mythology and Folklore of the Willow: http://www.treesforlife.org.uk/forest/mythfolk/willow.html

Information provided by Hannah (pictures required)