Diamond Willow

Diamond willows are willows that are peculiarly shaped as the outcome of attack one or many forms of fungus called the "Valsa sordida", which has produced a diamonding result developing in the wood of the tree. Cankers, or more known as "diamonds", are formed on the wood of the tree as the reaction of the infection.

There are no less than six diverse species that are identified as diamond willows. These species of diamond willows are Salix bebbiana, Salix pseudomonticola, Salix arbusculoides, Salix discolor, Salix scouleriana and the Salix alaxensis. Salix eriocephala or otherwise known as "Heartleaf Willow" is the other name for diamond willows. Some of these species are fusioned in the wild.

The diamond willows usually have a branch on its middle or on the "Y" of the tree. Diamond willows do not grow on specific locations. Diamond willows are treasured by carvers and furniture makers because it has keen contrasting shades or colors (usually red and white) and also because of the irregularity of the shape of the diamond willow.

Diamond willows have cankers that are diamond shaped because of the reaction of the fungus infection. The formation of the diamonds varies on each willow. However, common trends are found within a single species. Some branches develop long and narrow diamonds while some have short and wide diamonds. Most of the time, the diamonds on the branches on a single cluster have the same growth outline.

The living bark of the willow tends to be a little smoother and somewhat light colored. The bark that has diamonds on it tends to be converted into a tougher and slightly darker in color. The bark also tends to stick more to the underlying wood. The color of the sap of the wood varies on the species and location; it ranges from cream to white in color. The heartwood has a reddish brown colored sap and has a tendency to darken once exposed to light as the years go by.

If a single willow in a cluster is affected by diamonding, then all of the willows are prone to be infected. On the other hand, nearby cluster of willow usually are not affected. Diamond willows are found on most parts of Alaska, the Great Plains, parklands and boreal forests. Willows are commonly found in low lying wet regions. It is common knowledge that if the mosquitoes on a particular wet area, it is likely that you will find a willow on that area. Excellent quality diamond willows are usually found along the shores of lakes, riverbanks, slough sides, bogs and swamps. Some diamond willows are found on a city's riverbank. Either for carving or other types of wood crafts, diamond willows are great woods to work on.