goat willow
Noun: 1. A type of willow tree: A much-branched willow tree (Salix caprea) native to Europe and western Asia, known for its large, soft, silvery catkins (flowers) that appear in early spring before the leaves, and its relatively broad leaves compared to many other willows. It is also commonly called "pussy willow" or "great sallow."
The term "goat willow" is used specifically to refer to this species of tree. It is a common name used in botany, horticulture, and general descriptions of flora. - The early spring catkins of the goat willow are a valuable source of pollen for bees. - We planted a goat willow in the wet corner of the garden. - The goat willow is easily identified by its broad, oval leaves.
- The name "goat willow" originates from the fact that goats were known to browse on the leaves and young shoots of this tree.
- In botanical and ecological writing, the Latin binomial is often used alongside or instead of the common name for precision.
- Pussy Willow (n.): A very common name for the same tree (), referring specifically to its soft, furry catkins that resemble a cat's paws.
- Great Sallow (n.): Another common name for the goat willow, particularly used in the UK. "Sallow" is an old English word for certain types of willow.
- Willow (n.): The general category of trees and shrubs in the genus , to which the goat willow belongs.
- Pussy willow
- Great sallow
- (scientific name)
There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs using "goat willow." It is a straightforward botanical term.
- much-branched Old World willow having large catkins and relatively large broad leaves