Willow

• Deciduous trees or shrubs that form large, dense root-mats.
• Leaves are long, narrow, with finely toothed edges (except on pussy willows).
• Flower stalks have numerous tiny flowers.
• Seeds are small with long, silky hairs.

• Grows along riverbanks and creeks.

• The known distribution of restricted willows in Queensland is confined to a few occurrences in Southern, Central and Northern Queensland.

Environmental

• Invades riverbanks and wetlands.
• Roots spread into beds of watercourses, slowing water flow, reducing aeration and causing flooding and erosion.

Economic

• Has aggressive root system in urban environments, which readily damages footpaths and drains.

• Spread by fragments of stems or twigs breaking off and growing new roots in water.
• Spread by birds, especially grey swallow and black willow.

• Find out how farmers can prevent weed spread.
• Find out how gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts can prevent weed spread.

• Costly to control.
• Herbicide and/or mechanical techniques are effective.

• Willows is a category 3 restricted invasive plant under the Biosecurity Act 2014.
• You must not give away, sell or release willows into the environment. Penalties may apply.
• You must take all reasonable and practical measures to minimise the biosecurity risks associated with dealing with willows under your control. This is called a general biosecurity obligation (GBO).
• At a local level, each local government must have a biosecurity plan that covers invasive plants in its area. This plan may include actions to be taken on willows. Some of these actions may be required under local laws. Contact your local council for more information.