Scouler’s Willow (Salix scouleriana)
Scouler’s Willow is a perfect species for restoring wildlife habitat. It grows quickly and provides food and habitat for a wide variety of species, ranging from butterfly larvae to deer. In nature, it is commonly found along waterways and the edges of wetlands, as well as woodlands and open areas. It will do well in moist soil along a streambanks, but is also more tolerant of dry soil than other willow species. It prefers full sun or partial shade.
Scouler’s willow is named after John Scouler, a ship’s doctor, amateur botanist, and friend of David Douglas, the famous Scottish naturalist. Like the other species of native willow, it was widely used by the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. Willow bark was twisted into twine and rope, which were then used for making goods ranging from fishing nets to baskets.
Pre-order Scouler’s willow from KCD’s Native Plant Sale now.
Emma Atkinson, 2022-2023 AmeriCorps Coordinator, Education
Sources:
Cascade-Olympic Natural History by Daniel Mathews. Raven Editions in conjunction with the Audubon Society of Portland, 1988.
Scouler’s Willow – The North Creek Wetland – UW Bothell
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