Willow trees are easy to find because they have long, thin branches that hang down toward the ground like flowing hair! The weeping willow gets its name because when rain drips off its drooping branches, it looks like the tree is crying little tears. These thirsty trees especially love to grow near water, like ponds, rivers, and lakes, because they need lots and lots of water to drink. There are about 350 different kinds of willow trees in the world, and they grow really fast, shooting up three or four feet every single year!
When the wind blows, the willow’s branches wave back and forth so gracefully that it almost looks like the tree is dancing. In the springtime, some willows grow fuzzy little buds called “pussy willows” that feel as soft as a kitten’s fur! Willow wood is special because it is strong but very light, and people use it to make things like cricket bats, baseball bats, and baskets. Here is a really cool fact: the bark of some willow trees contains a natural ingredient that is used to make pain medicine, so willows have been helping people feel better for thousands of years!