Salix lucida subsp. lasiandra, commonly known as Pacific Willow, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to riparian zones, wetlands, and along streams in the western United States and Canada. It can grow up to 30 feet tall with a similar spread, and is characterized by its shiny, lance-shaped leaves and yellow to brown bark. The flowers are catkins, which appear in early spring before the leaves, and are not particularly showy, but they do provide early-season pollen for insects. Pacific Willow is particularly noted for its bright green foliage in spring and summer, turning yellow in the fall.

Pacific Willow is valued for its rapid growth and is often used in riparian restoration projects to stabilize streambanks and improve wildlife habitat. It is also used ornamentally in wet areas of the landscape where other plants may struggle. This species requires full sun to partial shade and thrives in moist to wet soils. While it is not drought-tolerant, it can tolerate occasional flooding. Gardeners should be aware that willows have aggressive roots that can interfere with underground utilities and structures.CC BY-SA 4.0