Tree Facts:
There are more than 400 species of willows, with the weeping willow tree being one of the best-known.
This tree got its name because raindrops that fall to the ground from its drooping branches look like tears.
The great diversity of willows is partly due to the fact that they cross-pollinate with one another so that there are constantly new varieties forming, both naturally and via cultivation. Most of these species are found in the northern hemisphere and can be either trees or shrubs.
The bark of the weeping willow is generally grey or brown as well as rough and furrowed while the foliage is plentiful.
The weeping willow is a deciduous tree, which means it sheds its long, thin leaves each year. These are usually green on top and whitish on the underside but change to shades of yellow before falling off.
Weeping willow trees are also dioecious: In spring the weeping willow produces catkins that contain flowers, which are either male or female, depending on the tree.
These provide an important early source of pollen and nectar for insects like bumblebees, as weeping willows are one of the first plants to bloom in spring.
The fruit of the willow tree is a small capsule containing numerous tiny seeds that are easily dispersed by the wind.
Additionally, willow trees can also reproduce by creating genetic copies of themselves, via branches or twigs that fall off and take root.
Weeping willows are usually found near water sources, such as ponds, streams or lakes. But, even though they prefer moist, cool conditions, they can withstand droughts and are tolerant of most soil types.
The willow is a fast-growing tree – it can grow up to eight feet a year – and it is widely used in medicine, by both humans and animals. Deer, for example, will often rub their new antlers against the willow tree’s bark to relieve the itching. They do this because the bark produces a pain-relieving substance called salicin, which is an ingredient in the drug aspirin.
Humans from native cultures also chewed the bark of the willow tree to treat fever, headaches, inflammation, toothache and pain.
Besides this, willow wood is used to make various products, including furniture, toys, musical instruments such as flutes and whistles, baskets, fishing nets, paintbrushes, arrow shafts and dream-catchers. Additionally, sketching charcoal is often made from processed willow bark.
Some spiritual meanings:
Just as you can have spirit animals, you can have spirit trees, spirit flowers and spirit crystals.
If you have a spirit tree, this tells of the importance of grounding.
Are you connected to Mother Gaia?
Or do you need to spend more time in nature?
The weeping willow is pliable and its branches bend a long way without breaking.
Are you flexible enough?
Or are you too rigid?
The stronger your roots are, the more flexible you can allow yourself to be.
This tree also speaks of immortality since it can grow anew from a fallen branch.
Are you aware of your immortal soul? Do you need to connect to it once again?
Apart from the element earth, water holds great importance for you, as willow trees prefer to grow near sources of it.
Do you fully feel all of your emotions? Do you need to reach a greater understanding of them?
The willow tree is adaptable – it can survive in many different environments.
Are you adaptable? Do you allow changes in your life?
Or do you try to control everything?
Willow trees are valued for what they can provide.
Have you found the skills and talents that you can pass on to others? Do you feel valued enough? And do you value others for their areas of excellence?
If you want to read up on more spirit animals or want to learn more about spiritual topics in general, pick up a copy of my book “Willow and Strix – A spiritual journey” ©, available as a paperback or ebook (free for kindle unlimited users) US – UK – DE and in other countries
A. Wakan's Spirit Animals 