About Salix breweri Bebb
Salix breweri Bebb is a willow species commonly called Brewer's willow. This species is endemic to California, occurring on serpentine soils in the Coast Ranges located in and around the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a riparian shrub that reaches a height of 1 to 4 meters. Its yellowish or reddish-brown stems have a lightly hairy texture, while smaller twigs are covered in a coating of velvety fibers. Its leaves are generally lance-shaped, with smooth or lightly toothed edges, and their edges are partially rolled under. Leaves are hairy, and their lower surfaces are often quite woolly. Mature leaves can grow to 14 centimeters long or longer. The plant's inflorescence is a catkin that develops before leaves emerge. Catkins can grow up to 5 or 6 centimeters long, and female catkins lengthen further as fruits develop.