| Common Osier
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| Salix viminalis L. | ||||||||||||||
The Common Osier (Salix viminalis) also known simply as Osier, is a many-branched shrubby species of willow (Salix). They usually grow to between 3-6 m in height. It has long, straight branches with exceptionally long, slender leaves, around 10-15 cm in length but only 1 cm broad. The flexible twigs means that it is commonly used in basketry, giving rise to its alternative common name of "basket willow". Another increasing use is in energy forestry
The leaves are dark green, with a silky grey underside; the male catkins are yellow and oval-shaped, and appear in early Spring before the leaves. In contrast, the female catkins are longer and more cylindrical, appearing around the same time as the leaves.
Osiers are commonly found by streams and other wet places. They are widespread throughout both Britain and Ireland, but only at lower altitudes. It is one of the least variable willows, but it will hybridise with others.