OUR NATURE

Weeping willow

The weeping willow is a charismatic tree that has a rich history in Europe. Characteristic is its location along the water, where the hanging branches move with the wind. Willows are of little interest to forestry because the wood is too soft. The tree does have a medicinal and symbolic function.
Red panda
Beech Leaf With Blur

Medicinal and symbolic value

The weeping willow gets its name not only from its drooping branches, but also from the way raindrops roll off the leaves. They are said to symbolize tears rolling down one's cheek. The weeping willow is therefore associated with sadness. During a period of mourning it was customary to carry a willow twig with you. That would help to go through all stages of grief better.

And did you know that the bark of the weeping willow can be processed into a natural aspirin? This valuable property was discovered in 1853. Today's aspirin is synthetic, but the active substance as found in the willow is still incorporated.

The willow is also one of the 21 trees included in the Celtic tree calendar. The Celts used this calendar from about 1000 BC and linked the flowering time of certain trees to the character traits of people, based on their day of birth. So-called 'willow people' are said to be empathetic, beautiful and melancholy.

Round Weeping Willow
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facts and tidbits

English name

Weeping Willow

Scientific name

Salix pendulum

Origin of our hair

Asia

Flowering time

May June

Height

10 to 15 meters

Particularities

The active substance of aspirin is contained in the bark of the weeping willow.

Avifauna is committed

…to conserve vulnerable or endangered species. With our special bird collection and the expertise of our employees, we contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, both in the park and in the region.

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