Salix nivalis
(Snow Willow)
Salix nivalis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 5726/5745
Salix nivalis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 5748/5767
Salix nivalis, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 2361
Salix nivalis, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 5690
| Scientific Name | Salix nivalis (Salix reticulata ssp. nivalis) | USDA PLANTS Symbol | SANI8 |
| Common Name | Snow Willow | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 520861 |
| Family | Salicaceae (Willow) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Habitat and life zones: Subalpine and alpine (10500 to 13500 ft.); tundra, cirques, lake basins, rocky slopes. Plant: Small, leafy mat-forming sub-shrub less than 3 inches tall; stems trailing or erect, yellowish- or reddish- brown. Leaves: Dark green, somewhat shiny elliptic to broadly elliptic leaves and network of veins; smooth, seldom hairy upper surface, grayish lower surface with small hairs; leaves less than one inch long. Inflorescence: Dioecious (male and female flowers on separate plants); small catkins with multiple flowers with creamy to deep pink bracts. Bloom Period: June to August. References: Flora of North America and Jepson eFlora. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2025
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains
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