Telwillow (TELL-will-oh)
Telwillows are an evergreen, common tree found near all sources of fresh water. They are the parent of aife and riverhands. As well as assisting with erosion, their significant root systems support a variety of other plant and animal life. The appearance given to their silhouettes by their two types of leaves lends them an additional common name of "rivermaiden".
Basic Information
Anatomy
Upright, single trunks of 10-30ft are supported by a tightly-locked, shallow root system. Short upper branches sprout heads of broadleaves that then grow out into long stems trimmed with narrower leaves.
Biological Traits
Its bark is a mottled, subdued dark gray, red, and violet that is rough to the touch and with age, can form either straight or wavy ridges. Its younger leaves are upright clusters of broad, fuzzy, lighter green, four-pronged leaves with a distinct slight curl that helps them collect and absorb airborne water; these clusters age into nodes that then grow out and down into the typical long weeping stems covered in alternating narrow, silvery-green leaves.
Ecology and Habitats
Generally happy as long as its feet are wet, though it is capable of surviving for several dry months.
Additional Information
Uses, Products & Exploitation
Its long stems are used as wicker.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Rivers, ponds, lakes, springs.
Comments