Facts about the dwarf willow (Salix herbacea)
Salix herbacea, the dwarf willow, least willow or snowbed willow, is a species of tiny creeping willow (family Salicaceae) adapted to survive in harsh arctic and subarctic environments.
Distributed widely in alpine and arctic environments around the North Atlantic Ocean.
It is one of the smallest woody plants.
Growing to a mere 1-6cm in height, the dwarf willow is arguably the world’s tiniest tree.
Well adapted to live in arctic and subarctic environments.
Stays close to the ground to avoid cold winds.
Grows broad 0.3–2cm leaves to maximise sunshine.
Produces a single woody stem with lateral branches.
Some classify it as a tree.
Does not grow to the height of common trees.
Tiny height is an adaptation to protect against cold.
In summer, air temperatures can be 8–9°C warmer at ground level than 30cm above.
Growing low takes advantage of warmer temperatures and calmer winds.
Staying low helps buds avoid wind erosion.
Short growing season and lack of summer warmth limit energy.
All resources go to leaves, flowers, seeds, and roots.
Little energy left to produce wood or grow tall.
Dwarf willow can be used as a miniature Christmas tree.
Fits very small living spaces.
Full size approximately 6 x 2cm.
Male plants produce yellow fruits.
Female plants produce red fruits.
Can live at over 1,500m altitude and at sea level
