Salix babylonica

Description

The weeping willow is a medium to large deciduous landscape tree in the Salicaceae or willow family.  With pendulous, weeping branches, a stout trunk, and a broad rounded crown it makes a statement in any landscape. It will grow quickly to a height of 30 to 40 feet and a width of 30 to 40 feet but with that rapid growth comes weak wood. The pendulous branches sweep down to the ground from the crown of the tree. The leaves are linear, lanceolate, light green on the upper surface, and glaucous or grayish-green beneath. The flowers are male and female green catkins that are about 1 to 2 inches long. They appear on separate male and female trees. This tree is frequently seen near ponds and streams. 

This tree is native to East Asia but has naturalized throughout North Carolina.