Salix nigra , commonly called black willow, is a medium-to-large, fast-growing, deciduous willow tree. It typically grows to 70-80’ tall on single or multiple curved trunks, typically 1-2' thick, topped by a spreading, rounded but sometimes irregular crown.

The black willow grows in consistently moist to wet soils in full sun to part shade. It is tolerant of many soil types so long as ample moisture is present. It is tolerant of flooding and silting. It has a shallow, spreading root system that is good for stabilizing soils and makes the tree an effective selection for erosion control. Soils should not be allowed to dry out. It prefers full sun. Avoid full shade. Prune as needed in late winter to early spring.

Host plant for Eastern Tiger Swallowtail, Mourning Cloak, Red-spotted Purple, Viceroy, Eastern Comma butterflies.

It also provides suppor for the following specialized native bee species: Andrena (Parandrena) andrenoides, Andrena (Thysandrena) bisalicis, Andrena (Tylandrena) erythrogaster, Andrena (Andrena) frigida, Andrena (Micrandrena) illinoiensis, Andrena (Andrena) macoupinensis, Andrena (Trachandrena) mariae, Andrena (Parandrena) nida, Andrena (Micrandrena) nigrae, Andrena (Micrandrena) salictaria, Andrena (Parandrena) wellesleyana.