Where can I find a weeping willow tree (Salix spp.) in or near Philadelphia?
Is there a park or somewhere that I can see them?
Answer
I looked in our copy of Philadelphia Trees: a Field Guide to the City and the Surrounding Delaware Valley and the authors point out that "willows grow most frequently in moist soils bordering streams, lakes and wetlands" and are used in riparian restoration plantings -- so keep that in mind as you look for willows.
According to this field guide, weeping willows can be seen in Pennypack Park and along the Delaware River, among other places, including South Philadelphia, at Beck and Hancock Streets; SW corner; FDR Golf Club; in the North East: Palmer Cemetery, Fishtown,
Our native black willow (Salix nigra) is common along the Schuylkill River.
Hope this helps. You are welcome to come to PHS and use the field guides and other material in our library, and I particularly recommend the Philadelphia Trees field guide. Should you decide to become a member, you can borrow these books.
je