Salix lemmonii, commonly known as Lemmon’s willow, is a deciduous shrub native to riparian zones, wetlands, and moist mountainous areas in western North America, from British Columbia through California and east to Colorado. It thrives along streambanks, in wet meadows, and within montane coniferous forests, playing a crucial role in these ecosystems by stabilizing soil and providing habitat for wildlife. Lemmon’s willow typically grows 3 to 13 feet tall and can form dense colonial thickets. Its leaves are lance-shaped to oval, up to 4 inches long, with smooth or lightly serrated edges, and vary from hairless to slightly hairy surfaces. The plant produces stout catkins, which are the flowers of willows, indicating the arrival of spring.

Lemmon’s willow is valued for its ability to quickly colonize and stabilize eroded riparian areas, making it an excellent choice for revegetation projects. Its dense growth habit also provides valuable shelter for wildlife. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil and full sun to part shade conditions. While it is not typically used for ornamental purposes, its ecological benefits make it a vital plant for restoration and conservation efforts. Gardeners should be aware that willows, in general, can have aggressive root systems that may interfere with underground utilities or structures.CC BY-SA 4.0