crack willow

plant

Also known as: Salix fragilis, brittle willow

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June 25, 2026

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Crack willow, also known as brittle willow or snap willow, is a common Old World willow (Salix fragilis). It is a large tree, often reaching over 20 meters (65 feet) in height, and is native to Eurasia but widely naturalized. Willows, in general, are shrubs and trees belonging to the genus Salix, primarily found in north temperate regions. They are valued for their ornamental qualities, shade provision, use in erosion control, and timber. Certain willow species are also the source of salicin, from which salicylic acid, a component of pain relievers, is derived. Willows reproduce asexually through fragmentation; fallen branches can root and develop into new trees.123

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willow
nigra), crack, or brittle (S. fragilis), and white (S. alba), all reaching 20 metres (65 feet) or more; the first named is North American, the other two Eurasian but naturalized widely. All are common in lowland situations.
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nigra), crack, or brittle (S. fragilis), and white (S. alba), all reaching 20 metres (65 feet) or more; the first named is North American, the other two Eurasian but naturalized widely. All are common in lowland situations.
Read More