Salix boothii, commonly known as Booth’s Willow, is a deciduous shrub native to riparian zones, wetlands, and marshes in the Western USA and Canada. It typically grows to 6 meters (20 ft) in height and is adaptable to various soil conditions. In well-drained soils, it tends to be larger and more branched, while in saturated areas such as bogs, it adopts a smaller, simpler form. Booth’s Willow is characterized by its slender branches and narrow, lance-shaped leaves. The catkins, which are the inflorescences of willows, appear in May and June, often before or as the leaves emerge. These catkins are not particularly showy but are critical for pollinators.

Booth’s Willow is valued for its ability to form dense colonial thickets, making it an excellent choice for erosion control along waterways. Its resilience to wildfire, with the capacity to resprout after being burned, adds to its utility in restoration projects. This species is also used in riparian reforestation efforts. It requires full sun to thrive and can tolerate a range of water conditions, though it prefers moist to wet soils with varying drainage capabilities. While it is not commonly used in ornamental horticulture, its ecological benefits make it a significant plant for conservation purposes. Gardeners should be aware that, like many willows, it can spread vegetatively and may require management to prevent unwanted colonization.CC BY-SA 4.0