Can Anyone Identify this Tree Please?

[Minty1000]

Hello everyone,

I have just moved house and have a wonderful tree in the garden, although not being very good with such things I wondered if anyone out there can identify this tree for me please....?!

[Minty1000]

I do hope I haven't made a mistake with the photos! The tree in question is found in the first 5 photographs (Not the Blueberry/Sloe ones!)

Sorry!

Thanks

[aeshna5]

Looks like a Goat Willow, Salix capraea or possibly a hybrid with that as a parent. Salix species are notably promiscuous with many hybrids.

[Minty1000]

Oh I see, I have a friend who said it was either a Hazel or a Lime, but as he wasn't a gardener either he was not sure.
I really don't know how Alan Titchmarsh does it........

Could it be a Hazel or Lime or the hybrid trees you mentioned earlier, or even a mix of Hazel and/or Lime (If this is possible????)

Thank you for your prompt response.

[Farplace]

definately looks like a willow of some sort to me.

[aeshna5]

Originally Posted by Minty1000

Oh I see, I have a friend who said it was either a Hazel or a Lime, but as he wasn't a gardener either he was not sure.
I really don't know how Alan Titchmarsh does it........

Could it be a Hazel or Lime or the hybrid trees you mentioned earlier, or even a mix of Hazel and/or Lime (If this is possible????)

Thank you for your prompt response.

When I mentioned a hybrid I mean with another closely related sallow/willow.

[Minty1000]

I always thought Willows had long leaves but never really stopped to look... (I am showing off my intelligence/observational skills now aren't I!)

Goat Willow it was named, so Goat Willow it shall stay.

If I may also ask: Is there anything i should do to keep this tree healthy i.e. prune etc or are they pretty hardy?

Thanks

[aeshna5]

A lot of willow species do have long leaves, but Salix is a large genus of very variable shrubs/trees. Some alpine species grow prostrate along the ground.

Your shrub is a very hardy native shrub. If it gets too large you can coppice it (cut the stems back to their base) + it will shoot again.

A very useful shrub for wildlife as the early flowers (catkins/pussy willow) are a magnet to a wide range of insects including various butterflies, moths, bees + hoverflies + even used by birds such as Blue Tits.

Also the leaves attract a range of aphids (food for many other creatures) + eaten by various caterpillars.

Not the most ornamental of plants but a beneficial one for wildlife + as I said just cut it back if it gets too large.

[Minty1000]

Thank you ever so much for your help, i bet you could give Alan Titchmarsh a run for his money!

Once again thank you ever so much for your help, it is much appreciated.