Willow Tree

The arroyo willow (Salix lasiolepis) grows in riparian (river) areas and stabilizes river banks against erosion. This tree gave Sausal Creek its name — the Spanish word sauzal means willow grove. Willows produce nectar in the spring which provides food for pollinators, like native bees. Willows were extremely useful to the native Ohlone people. A stand of willows suggests a reliable source of water, as willows require a lot of moisture. Willow branches are ideal for basket weaving because of their remarkable flexibility. In addition, willow leaves and bark can be brewed into tea to reduce pain and fever due to the presence of salicin, the active ingredient in aspirin. At the time of colonization, Sausal Creek did not reach the San Francisco Bay, but ended in a huge grove of willow trees.