Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica) is known for its long, flexible, downward-sweeping branches that give it a classic weeping appearance. It is native to northern China and thrives in full sun and moist to wet, well-drained soils, often found near water sources. Botanically, it is characterized by its simple, alternate, lanceolate leaves, which are green on top and gray-green underneath, turning yellow in the fall.

• Leaves:
• • Type: Simple, alternate 

• • Shape: Lanceolate (long and narrow) 
  • Margin: Serrate or serrulate (toothed) 
  • Color: Green on top, gray-green underneath 
  • Persistence: Deciduous (loses leaves in fall) 
  • Fall Color: Yellow 
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing with a round, dense, and symmetrical crown 
• Branches: Long, slender, flexible, and weeping, creating a curtain-like effect 
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day) 
• Appearance: Valued for its ornamental weeping form 
• Growth: Extremely fast-growing, with some cultivars adding up to 8 feet in height per year after establishment 
• Uses: Can be grown as a specimen tree or for screening