Description
Notes
The Hybrid Willow is well liked for a strong roots and dense lower branches. It is also great in preventing rabbit and deer browse.
Uses
This tree is typically used for windbreaks, erosion control, and privacy screening as it a very fast growing tree.
Wildlife Value
The Hybrid Willow does not have any known benefits for animals/birds. With this being said, it is commonly used by farmers as fencing for poultry and ranches. This is because it assists in masking the odor from cattle.
History & Lore
This tree was created by the New Zealand Department of Science and Industrial Research. It was done by genetically crossing the White Willow (Salix alba) with the Weeping Willow (Salix matsudana). In the 20th century, nine clones (all believed to be male) were released into the wild over three decades. Later they were imported to Australia to be used as windbreaks. There it earned its nickname ‘Austree’.
