Willow (Salix caprea)

Other names: Willow cat, goat willow

The willow tree, also known as cat willow or goat willow in English-speaking countries, is one of the native trees of Europe and Asia. Its generic name, caprea, is derived from the Latin word for goat, because according to many sources, goats are the first to go after cat willows when nature awakens in spring. The willow is a very hardy tree that can tolerate cold temperatures well and can grow in almost any soil, although it prefers moist and nutrient-rich ones. It is because of its distribution and its importance to nature that people have used it for many generations in a wide variety of areas.

The leaves and buds of the willow have been used in medicine since time immemorial. Due to their high content of salicylic acid, a precursor of aspirin, they have strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Infusions of them are used to treat rheumatism, headaches, fever, colds and similar ailments. In the past, the jelly-like substance that forms on the surface of the buds and has a strong antiseptic action has also been used. The wood of the willow is light and soft, easy to work and therefore popular for making furniture, various decorations and other items. In the past, it was also used to make tools, utensils and wicker baskets. The bark of the tree also has its uses, as it is rich in tannins and is used in tanning. Nowadays, the willow is mainly used in landscaping as an ornamental tree or for soil stabilisation. It is also a valuable source of food and shelter for many species of insects, birds and mammals.