Native to China, weeping willows grow rapidly but only have a life expectancy of about 30 years. They range from being 30 to 75 feet in height by around 35 feet in width. As they mature, weeping willows are distinguished by their branches that droop with thin, narrow leafs (shown left) to make a canopy of shade and during fall the leaves' color change into a golden yellow.
The weeping willow's name comes from exactly how the tree looks. The drooping branches look like the tree is "weeping"and gives off a sad feeling especially when it is winter and the tree is bare. A weeping willow can be both a symbol of death and a symbol of life. It has dark mystical stories behind it like how the twigs of the tree were used to make a witches broom or how the bark is used to make wands and other talismans. There are different ancient stories and myths that describe the weeping willow to have fertility powers to also being the product of two lovers who died and now grieve through the bent shape of the tree.I think of the tree as being more of a symbol of life than death but both aspects are equally important.
Weeping willow trees are used to make things that I never would have thought of. The most stunning product the tree is used to make is charcoal which is a medium used religiously in a drawing and painting class. Plus the willow can be used for medical remedies to treat for headaches by chewing on bark and twigs. In willow's bark there is salicylic acid that is extracted and was used as the underlying foundation in producing aspirin, that is used today as a painkiller.
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I've always loved willow trees. Not only are they incredibly beautiful, but there's just something mysterious and soulful about them. Tn Tree Farm Nursery
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