Willow - Balsam

: It usually grows as a multi-stemmed shrub reaching 6 to 12 feet (1.8 to 3.6 meters) in height, though it can occasionally form a small tree up to 13–20 feet. Habitat and Ecology

: Noted for its shiny red twigs and bright red buds, which provide striking winter interest.

Balsam willow thrives in cold, wet environments across Canada and the northern United States. balsam willow

: The leaves are typically ovate to elliptic, often with a heart-shaped base . They are dark glossy green on top and pale blue-green (glaucous) with prominent veins on the underside.

Are you interested in balsam willow for your landscape, or Salix pyrifolia (Balsam Willow) - Minnesota Wildflowers : It usually grows as a multi-stemmed shrub

: Its rods are valued for basketry and making tension trays because they retain a glossy sheen even after drying, unlike many other willow varieties that become dull.

: It requires moist to wet, nutrient-poor, acidic soil and does not tolerate drying out. : The leaves are typically ovate to elliptic,

: Peatlands, black spruce-tamarack bogs, alder swamps, and the sandy shores of lakes and creeks.