Based on the provided reference, the heart-leaved willow (Salix eriocephala) is identified as a woody plant with leaves that are somewhat heart-shaped at the base.
Understanding the Heart-Leaved Willow
The heart-leaved willow is a notable example of a woody plant possessing leaves with a characteristic shape. As described, this species grows as a multi-trunked small tree, fitting the description of a woody plant.
Distinctive Leaf Characteristics
The most distinguishing feature highlighted in the reference is its foliage. The leaves of the heart-leaved willow are:
- Thick in texture.
- Shaped as somewhat heart-shaped at the base.
- Hairy underneath.
These leaf traits make it a plant of interest for identification based on leaf shape.
Other Identifying Features
Beyond its specific leaf structure, the heart-leaved willow has other features that help identify it:
- Bark: It is noted for having dark, scaly bark.
- Catkins: Silky catkins appear before the leaves emerge in the spring, offering an early seasonal display.
Here is a summary of its key characteristics based on the reference:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant Type | Woody, multi-trunked small tree |
| Leaves | Thick, somewhat heart-shaped at base, hairy underneath |
| Bark | Dark, scaly |
| Catkins | Silky, appear before leaves in spring |
The reference explicitly states: "The thick leaves of heart-leaved willow are somewhat heart-shaped at the base and are hairy underneath. This multi-trunked small tree has dark, scaly bark. Silky catkins appear before the leaves in spring." This directly supports its classification as a woody plant with the described leaf shape.
