salix exigua
Dense splash of green/knifelike leaf on the waterway…
coyote willow
sandbar willow
generally narrow-leaf willow
Claiming the western four parts in ten
of the NorthaMericanContinent.
Creeping and sprouting ten feet in 20 years.
Today an ornament with employment --
stopping runoff – mostly.
previously: part of a sweat lodge;
medicine for a cold, laryngitis,the rheumatiz;
fever bark (Original Aspirin);
tea for V.D. or other uneases;
ritually: a ceremonial drink.
day to day: fodder for critters;
mat and basket fixin’s;
makin’s for clothes.
practically: kindling;
tongs and tools to cook;
parts for hunting gear or
fishing weirs.
for fun: sticky sweet treats and
tobacco wrappers; toys for the old,
toys for the young.
Willow exigua –
Versatile for any exigency.
--Kathy Bowman
