Sandbar willow, a sun-loving species prevalent along Alberta's waterways, thrives in flood-prone areas. Its deep roots stabilize banks, preventing erosion, and its suckering growth creates dense thickets. This willow, reaching 4-7 meters, offers early-season pollen and nectar, valuable forage, and straight wood ideal for crafts and potential biomass energy. Its rapid growth and ecological benefits make it excellent for eco-buffers and riparian restoration.
Distributions –
foothills; prairie; parkland; boreal; montane
Light –
full-sun-to-partial-shade
Bloom Period –
spring
Height –
4 – 7 metres
13 – 23 feet
Habitat
Moist to wet alluvial soils along rivers, streams, sloughs and lakeshores.