Black willow
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The Black Willow (Salix nigra) is a species of willow native to the Eastern United States, as well as parts of Canada and Mexico. The Goodding Willow (Salix gooddingii) is sometimes considered a variety of the Black Willow, which would extend its range to the Western United States. The largest American species of willow, it is typically found along streams and in swamps, hence it is also known as the Swamp Willow (not to be confused with Salix myrtilloides).
Black Willow roots are very bitter, and have been used as a substitute for quinine in the past.
It is a small to medium-sized tree, though it can grow to around 70 feet in good conditions and even up to 140 feet. It has long, thin leaves, 3-6 inches long. The leaves are a dark, shiny green color, with a lighter green underside. A dioecious tree, it has small, green flowers that are borne on catkins.
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