There are many willow species native to California, but it is difficult to differentiate between them. Willows have long, slender leaves and grow in riparian woodlands; their leaves and pollen provide food for macroinvertebrates in the river.
Fun Fact The Sandbar Willow, Red Willow, and Arroyo Willow are native to California, but the most famous willow——the large, drooping Weeping Willow——is a non—native, invasive species.