willow tree description creative writing

37 of the Best Ways to Describe Trees Vividly to Capture Your Readers

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Vocabulary Boosters

When writing about nature, you will probably need to use words to describe trees; to properly capture the scene or event. The easiest way to approach this is by using words to describe the appearance of the tree.

The appearance of trees depends on several factors including age, type of tree, season/time of year, shape, size, color and the feelings it evokes. You can also use words that focus on other senses like smell, touch, sound, and even taste.

In this post, we’ll be focusing primarily on what you can see. Combine them with other descriptive words as you see fit to capture the essence of the tree.

8 ways to describe trees that look strong and healthy

  A tree that looks strong/healthy is sturdy and robust. Its trunk is thick and its branches are sturdy.   It has healthy leaves and is perhaps a safe haven or home for different species of animals. This tells us the tree has a long life ahead of it, and even that it’s able to withstand a lot of damage.   These trees are generally associated with positive feelings and events when writing. Here are some words to describe trees that look strong and healthy:  

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8 ways to describe trees that look old and frail

  When a tree looks old, the bark may be thin and cracked, and the branches may be brittle and weak. The leaves may be small and yellowed, and the roots may be shallow or fall off entirely.   This describes a tree that is not healthy and is coming toward the end of its lifetime. Note that in “tree-years” this doesn’t mean a year or two- it can mean a hundred years from now!   Here are some words to describe trees that look old:  

How to describe trees that lose leaves during fall

  Most trees shed their leaves during fall (autumn) to prepare for the winter season. The purpose of this is to conserve energy that is used to sustain green leaves and fruit as rainfall decreases, overall sunshine decreases and the days get shorter.   During this time, leaves turn from green to shades of red, yellow, orange, purple and brown as chlorophyll production decreases (chlorophyll is responsible for giving leaves a green pigment).   In writing, fall scenes tend to represent melancholy, acceptance, tiredness, mystery, and taking stock of all that’s happened and is to come. These are some words to describe trees during fall as they lose leaves:  

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How to paint a picture for the trees that go into dormancy over winter

  During winter, trees enter a sort of dormant state. They aren’t producing new leaves and are instead conserving the energy they need to bloom in spring when conditions are more favorable.   These types of trees are often used to emphasize negative and eerie feelings. They also help to mark the change in season and can refer to temperature, sunshine, precipitation, etc.   Winter represents isolation, death, letting go, old age, pain and rest.   Here are some words to describe trees and their behavior during winter dormancy:  

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How to describe trees that grow new leaves in spring

  As spring approaches, trees begin to grow new leaves because the weather is more conducive to growth. Spring represents feelings of renewal, rebirth, hope, fertility, new possibilities, balance and freshness.   It is also a time for change, and represents youthfulness and happiness. Here are some words to describe trees during spring:  

  Trees are more than just background props to sprinkle in your creative writing. They can be used to describe emotion in the atmosphere and contribute to creating vivid imagery for your readers.   Use these words to describe trees to not only improve your writing but increase your creativity. Once you can picture it, you should be able to write it!  

Saturday 27th of July 2024

Trees: Be Specific When You Describe

MIDDLE SCHOOL PROMPTS

Let’s talk about trees.

Something interesting just happened to you. Right now. This moment.

When you read “trees,” an image of a tree or trees popped into your head. What was it?

When you write to describe something, you want to be specific. You DON’T want to write like this: “An animal darted in front of our car.”

Why not? After all, darted is a vivid verb that describes movement. That’s a good way to write—using vivid verbs.

Which Animal?

Here’s where that sentence is weak: The word animal is not specific and will not give your readers any idea of what kind of animal you are writing about. Was it a cougar? A snake? A squirrel? An elk? Furry? Striped? Antlered? Winged?

When writers are not specific, readers have no image in their heads of what is going on. They cannot “see” the story.

The same thing is true with trees or really anything you are going to describe.

Sometimes, all you need is one or two words (adjectives or verbs). Is the woman tall ? Is the baby bald and chunky ? Does the garbage reek of rotted fish ? Is the meadow dotted with happy, yellow flowers? Does the wind whisper or does it shout ?

Now it’s your turn: Write two sentences to describe a tree. Let your readers get a specific idea in their heads about what kind of tree you are writing about. Give it some character, as well, in your description. Is it gnarled? Black-barked? Towering?

Do you enjoy the tree? Is it scary? Let readers know how they should feel about the tree, as well, by the words you use to describe it.

Be specific.

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Silent Balance

Tree Symbolism in Literature: the Most Memorable and Famous Trees

Trees have been an important part of literature since willows weeped over the loss of their lovers and apple trees tempted Adam and Eve with forbidden fruit. The meaning and symbolism of trees in literature is often connected to life, death, growth, and fertility.

In this post, we will be exploring the symbolic power of trees in literature.

Given trees many symbolic meanings , it’s no wonder that trees are such common motifs in literature. Here are just a few examples of how authors have used trees to add depth and meaning to their stories.

Table of Contents

What is the symbolism of trees in literature?

Trees are a significant symbol within literature, with many writers using them to represent family connections , knowledge, time and the growth of characters. This can be seen in myths such as Adam and Eve who had free will before they ate from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil . Trees are an important part in all types of literature, whether it’s fantasy or more realistic works alike.

What are the common symbols of trees in literature?

The symbolic power of trees in literature is multifaceted. Trees can represent love , temptation, care or nurturing, friendship but also violence and destruction.

• In the Bible, the tree of knowledge of good and evil has become an iconic symbol of temptation;
• in Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse it is a symbol of enlightenment;
• The Giving Tree uses an apple tree to symbolize selfless love;
• To Kill a Mockingbird uses a tree to represent friendship.
• The Bodhi tree is a fig tree that is often found at spiritual sites and is a significant tree in Buddhism

No matter how they are used in literature or culture at large, one thing remains clear: trees have long been used as powerful symbols with deep meaning for humanity.

1. Strength and Endurance

Trees are symbols of strength and endurance in literature, with the oak tree being one of the most prominent symbols of this quality. Redwoods, for example, are known for their ability to withstand powerful fires that other species cannot survive.

2. Wisdom and Guidance

Trees are often associated with wisdom and guidance in literature due to their symbolic significance. This is rooted in the Tree of Life being mentioned in the Bible and its association with intelligence and wisdom, as well as being placed in the Garden of Eden as a safeguard against humans.

Trees have been associated with knowledge of both good and evil, representing an understanding beyond simple right or wrong. This symbolism makes them apt symbols for wisdom; providing insight into life’s complexities while offering guidance on how best to navigate it.

3. Protection and Shelter

In literature, trees are often used to symbolize protection and shelter. This can be seen in various works of literature, from the willow which has been associated with protection since ancient times. Trees offer a sense of safety, comfort, and security to those who seek them out in literature as well as in life.

4. New Beginnings and Renewal

Trees have long been associated with new beginnings and renewal in literature. A leafless tree, for example, can be seen as a symbol of rebirth and hope. Trees also lose their leaves during the fall season to prepare for spring, representing a fresh start.

The Chinaberry tree is particularly associated with new beginnings and renewal in literature, often being used to signify the start of something new.

5. Growth and Maturity

In literature, trees symbolize growth and maturity. They represent life cycles, as well as physical and emotional changes experienced by characters over the course of a story. A leafless tree can be used to symbolize a change in a character’s life due to growing old or experiencing loss.

6. Death and Transformation

The yew tree is often used to symbolize death and transformation in literature, due to its poisonous properties and ability to regenerate. Its robustness makes it a perfect representation of life’s cycles- growing old and then passing on into immortality.

Yews are associated with success after a period of transformation, hard work, and protection from evil. Willow tree represent grief or sorrow.

All these representations make trees powerful tools for authors attempting to convey the themes of death and transformation within their writing.

7. Stability and Prosperity

The oak tree is often used in literature as a symbol of strength and stability, representing protection and a long life. Trees form forests which is an even greater power because forests have their own symbolic power . An example of this can be seen in the Major Oak , which has been standing in Sherwood Forest for over 1000 years.

What does the apple tree symbolize?

The apple tree is a powerful symbol in literature, representing knowledge, temptation, fertility, and eternal life. This tree symbolizes knowledge and understanding as Adam and Eve are told they will die if they eat its fruit .

In addition, it can represent fertility and harvest as well as an opportunity for Adam and Eve to choose good from evil. Finally, apples may also be used to symbolize eternal life since it was the food of immortality in some ancient cultures.

Symbolic Power of Trees

Over time, the symbolism of trees in literature has evolved to become a significant part of many stories. In her book, “The Power of Trees”, author Nancy Stafford explores how different common types of trees have been used symbolically throughout history.

Stafford discusses how the ash tree has been associated with joy and cleansing, the cypress with death and mourning, the olive tree as a sign of peace and fertility, holly for protection against evil forces and birch to signify new beginnings.

Furthermore, she looks at how trees play an important role in modern literature from J. R. R Tolkien’s Lord of The Rings to Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree. She also delves into the cultural impacts that come from tree loss such as species conservation efforts or deforestation campaigns on our lives and environment today.

How are tree symbols used to convey different meanings in literary works?

Symbols can be used to effectively convey different meanings and themes in literary works by providing readers with a visual representation of the ideas being presented. By using symbols, authors can illustrate complex concepts and emotions in more accessible ways.

Shattered Hopes – the destruction of expectations or dreams.

An author can use a broken tree branch to convey the destruction of hopes and dreams by showing that hope is fragile and can be shattered at any moment. The fallen branch also can serve as a reminder that even though one may have gone through disappointment before, the tree is alive – there is still hope for the future.

End – conclusion of a journey, period of time, or story.

An author can use the symbol of an end, such as a leafless and dead tree , to signify the conclusion of a journey, period of time, or story. By utilizing this image in literature, authors are able to evoke strong emotions and create powerful imagery for their readers.

The symbol of a leafless tree can carry other meanings related to loss or grief which makes it an effective tool for authors looking to shape emotionally charged stories.

Detachment, Desolation – alienation or separation.

A single, leafless or dead tree standing alone in the desert can be used to express feelings of alienation or separation in literary works. Trees can represent a person’s emotions, such as the willow which symbolizes grief and sadness or the apple tree which symbolizes hope and life.

In literature, detached characters may be associated with certain trees such as a spruce, which represents loneliness and detachment itself. By connecting characters with a certain type of tree, authors are able to further emphasize feelings of alienation or separation between them and draw attention to emotional states that are otherwise difficult to convey in words alone.

Growing Old – the passing of time and the inevitability of death.

A leafless tree in literature can symbolize desolation, the passage of time, the end of something, shattered hopes and hurt from the past, detachment from relationships or other tough times. Symbols are an effective way to convey emotions and ideas without explicitly stating them.

Rebirth – new beginning, hope, and renewal.

A tree without leaves can symbolize rebirth because it is a time of hope and new beginnings. The tree is alive, but it is waiting for the leaves to come back. This can be seen as a metaphor for our own lives. We go through tough times when we lose our leaves, but we have to keep hope alive that things will get better. It is commonly used to signify a transformation or the possibility for change, often providing hope for the future. This symbolism is often found in stories involving nature.

End of a Relationship – the breakdown of a connection or bond.

The symbol of a broken bond can be used in a literary work to show the end of a relationship. This can be done by using imagery, such as describing the image of a dead tree, which can symbolize detachment, hopelessness, and darkness. It also reflects the emotions one feels after experiencing such an event.

Hurt from Past – pain and trauma experienced from prior experiences.

Symbols can be used to symbolize prior experiences that caused pain and trauma. By seeing a tree with damaged bark for example, can evoke memories of negative experiences and serve as a reminder of how those things affected the individual.

What Are The Most Memorable Trees in Literature?

Some of the most memorable trees in literature have become iconic representations that speak to deeper themes within their respective stories.

The symbolism of trees in literature often reflects the power of nature over man. Trees can represent the passage of time, life and growth, as well as resilience and strength in difficult times.

To Kill a Mockingbird

The tree that gives her life to save someone’s in To Kill a Mockingbird is an example of selfless sacrifice and hope in difficult times. Trees can also come to symbolize closed-mindedness, intolerance and fear in later novels, like with the oak tree in To Kill a Mockingbird which initially symbolizes friendship and generosity but is later used to represent darker connotations.

Lord of the Rings: The White Tree of Gondor symbolizes hope and renewal.

The White Tree of Gondor is a symbol of friendship and generosity in The Lord of the Rings. It is also a representation of life, with its roots symbolizing the past and its branches representing the future. In addition, it can be seen as a metaphor for human greed and hubris, as well as an example of closed-mindedness and fear.

The Lord of the Rings: The Ents symbolize the power of nature.

The Ents of Lord of the Rings are symbolic of generosity and hate. They aid Frodo and Sam on their journey to Mount Doom, demonstrating their willingness to help despite facing danger. However, they are also a symbol for the dangers that come from unchecked power – as seen with Saruman’s manipulation of them. The Ents serve as a reminder that even those with great power can be swayed by darker forces.

The Giving Tree: The tree symbolizes unconditional love and selfless giving.

The tree in The Giving Tree is a symbol of friendship, charity, and kindness. It provides sustenance and shelter to those who take care of it and grows closer to people over time. The tree’s giving nature is reflected in the story as it is a main protagonist, representing the importance of giving back to others.

Boo leaves gifts for Scout and Jem inside the knothole of this special tree – a symbolic gesture that shows the power of friendship even when it can’t be seen or heard directly.

In The Giving Tree, the tree symbolizes the unconditional love and support between a parent and a child. It emphasizes that giving can be beneficial and rewarding in ways that cannot necessarily be measured. The tree’s ability to grow with the boy demonstrates how childhood relationships can endure trials, change, and growth over time.

Jane Eyre: The tree in the garden symbolizes the connection between Jane and Rochester.

The tree symbolism in Jane Eyre represents the connection between Jane and Rochester. The horse chestnut tree , which is struck down by lightning, symbolizes the death of their proposed marriage. However, it still grows and new life is born from it, signifying that they are still connected.

The tree in the film Regulation of Attraction serves as a powerful symbol, representing how love can be unpredictable and dangerous. The imagery of the tree being struck by lightning is particularly effective, as it mirrors the fate of both Jane and Mr. Rochester’s relationship. By connecting himself to the ruined chestnut-tree, Rochester expresses his understanding that they are both damaged but still have a strong bond nonetheless.

The Lie Tree: The tree symbolizes the power of knowledge and truth.

The symbolism of the tree in The Lie Tree is used to represent the power of knowledge and truth. Through its magical properties, it allows the family to connect with nature and find inner peace. It also serves as a hallucinatory experience that reveals truths in dreams.

By growing based on lies told to it, it highlights how knowledge and truth can be powerful tools for those who seek them out. Additionally, its connection to books alludes to the vast amount of knowledge accessible through reading which further reinforces this idea.

Exploring the Symbolic Power of Trees in Literature: Harry Potter

J.K. Rowling uses trees as symbols in the Harry Potter series to represent a variety of values and themes, such as conservation, growth, and change. Trees can also be used to create suspense or conflict within a story; for instance, The Whomping Willow in Harry Potter acts as an antagonist that provides danger when provoked by magic.

The Whomping Willow is a symbol of both friend and foe in the series while the magic tree in Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets needs some chill pills.

Pippi Longstocking

Throughout the Pippi Longstocking series by Astrid Lindgren, trees are seen as a source of comfort and security for the characters. Initially, Pippi’s lemonade tree in her Villa Villekulla garden is a symbol of happiness and nostalgia for the author. However, as Pippi’s story progresses and she faces different challenges and experiences, the symbolism of trees changes to reflect her journey.

Pippi’s tree symbolizes how difficult it is to break away from a strong bond. The chestnut tree that split down the centre serves as an omen for how things will not go as planned between them. This symbolism ultimately highlights how strong their bond has become with a base and roots that can’t be broken easily.

Through the Looking Glass

In Lewis Carroll’s novel Through the Looking Glass, trees are used as symbols to represent a variety of people and ideas. For example, the trees in the book can stand for characters such as Alice, who is often seen walking through them.

The Muppet Show

The Muppet Show uses trees as symbols to communicate ideas, such as friendship and generosity. Additionally, the show employs trees to convey messages about closed-mindedness, intolerance and fear. Trees also act as a source of knowledge in the show, illustrating human greed in humorous ways. Lastly, the show often features stories about forest conservation and saving history through tree preservation.

The Wheel-Trees of Narnia

Trees also often appear to provide guidance or comfort in difficult circumstances, such as when Aslan was able to speak with Lucy through an old beech tree after she had been tricked by The White Witch into believing he was dead. Trees serve important symbolic roles throughout The Chronicles of Narnia and are integral elements within Lewis’ stories.

What Makes the Enchanted Trees of Winnie the Pooh Memorable in Literature?

The enchanted trees Winnie the Pooh encounters in the Hundred Acre Wood are memorable in literature for their whimsical charm and mysterious allure. These beloved trees serve as a backdrop for the characters’ adventures and symbolize the magic and wonder of childhood, leaving a lasting impression on readers of all ages.

What are trees?

The symbolism of trees has been used in literature and culture for centuries, with various species having specific meanings. For instance, the willow is often seen as a symbol of sorrow, while the apple tree is associated with goodwill and happiness. The wisteria and cherry trees represent love and romance, while the oak tree stands for strength, elm trees represent balance and longevity while fir trees signify honesty and truthfulness.

Given their deep significance in our culture, usage of tree symbols are an excellent way to ensure that the meaning resonates within one’s own life journey or to pass it on to future generations as a living memorial or reminder of something meaningful.

What does a tree symbolize in poetry?

Trees have long been a source of inspiration for poets, representing various themes in their work. They are also associated with Celtic , Greek, and Roman traditions as sacred symbols. Tree symbols are easy to understand and can help poets reflect on different aspects of life, making them an important part of the poetic process.

What does wood symbolize in literature?

Wood is often seen as a powerful symbol in literature that can be used to ward off evil spirits, protect the vulnerable, or provide strength and stability. In Norse mythology , for example, the ash tree is important for its symbolic properties which can ward off evil. The wood from this tree was even burned as part of rituals in order to ensure protection from harm.

What are benefits of tree time?

Planting trees can help people feel connected not only to others in the present but also with those in future generations. Activities such as “tree time” can be beneficial for reducing stress levels and improving mental health by providing a grounding experience amidst chaos or distressful times

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By leslieszabo

I like silence. I like balance.

• Who Dares to Catch the Falling Knife
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The Creative Exiles

Creative Writing Set Free

Wisdom of the Weeping Willow Tree

Much wisdom,

the weeping willow gave me,

in the summers,

that it flourished,

in a strange garden.

“There is no death”,

only the procession,

from garden to garden,

from valley to valley.

Past weeping willows,

on flowing river banks,

past red poppy fields,

over the mountains of sorrow,

past childhood valleys,

around the deep and mysterious,

wishing well.

Just sit beneath me,

said the weeping willow,

close your eyes,

sit back and dream your best dreams

and soon you will be,

beyond the rainbow –

in a garden paradise.

You’ll be smiling,

as you put your worldly clothes aside,

eternity’s wreath,

the angle holds in his hand,

he’ll lead you to a table,

where freshly baked bread –

is divided among the souls.

Soft like a cloud,

he’ll lean over you

and then you’ll hear –

soft whispers of friendship.

Till then you must begin,

to weave your eternity wreath,

blossom by blossom,

till one day it will be done

and the angel will then come,

to take you to a peaceful garden.

Until then your life is your own,

seek wisdom from me,

sit beneath me in the shade,

whenever you are weary,

I will make you smile again

and through life you’ll go dancing.

• Recent Posts

• Her Magical Attic - May 24, 2024
• Reflecting on the Setting Sun - April 9, 2024
• In My Special Dreams - February 16, 2024

• ← ‘Reflections…words of the heart’ my book of love poems
• All Sins Accountable →

Rasma Raisters

I am a poet and writer. I write for many different sites online. I have two published books of poems on Amazon - Poetic Thoughts Fly and On the Wings of Love.

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8 thoughts on “ wisdom of the weeping willow tree ”.

I’ve always been awe stuck by the Weeping Willow tree, how it bends and hangs with long tentacles of outreaching branches. They provide such peace and shade for our souls, I’ve sat under them from time to time, opened a book and read under it’s comfortable shade. Your visuals and colorful verse perfectly gave life to this majestic beauty of nature. Well penned Rasma.

Thank you Vincent. I’ve always felt that when a weeping willow is particularly full that just by spreading apart its branches to walk beneath is like walking into a fantasy world all green and wonderful.

Just lovely Rasma, and I too connect like this to nature and particularly trees. They whisper truths and wisdom for they live long, they share and understand their world far better than we. This is heartfelt and evocative and and so emotive as to our place within life. great work.

Thank you Tony.

A beautiful and softly-sad poem, is this. There was a Weeping Willow tree in the yard of the house where I was raised as a young child. I understood why it weeped so. But, it is happy, now, dancing in the breeze.

Your poem is nostalgic for me, and stirs my emotions because it is written with much depth, and lovely detail.

You welcome Tamara. Glad this brought back pleasant memories.

This poem is so beautiful, Rasma. I have long believed the Willow has mystical and magic powers, along with the moon and water (my element), the Willow enhances the essence of love in our lives. I used to weave wreaths from the delicate branches of the Willow. My Irish father used to say I must have been a Celtic faerie at one time, living in a Willow tree . Lovely poem. Thank you for writing this piece.

You welcome Phyllis. Glad this came with lovely memories.

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UVM Tree Profiles

Weeping willow : description and identification.

Parts of the Weeping Willow

The Weeping Willow grows up to 60 feet (18 m), has a trunk diameter between 1 to 3 feet and a root spread of up to 35 feet.  The branches of the Weeping Willow form a lofty, pendulous curtain around the tree.  In spring, the male and female flowers called catkins will form on separate trees, making the Weeping Willow a dioecious (two gendered) plant.

The simple leaves of the Weeping Willow are narrow, between 4 to 16 centimeters long, light green in color and turn a golden-yellow in autumn.  The leaves are alternatively arranged and spiral around each branch.  The edges of the leaf are lightly serrated and the tip of the leaf tapers off.

The bark of the Weeping Willow runs in ridges up the trunk of the tree.  The bark of young Weeping Willows has a red-orange tint underneath, while the branches and branchlets have a golden coloring.

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• Description and Identification
• Weeping Willow- Natural History
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• Weeping Willow- References
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Describing Words

This tool helps you find adjectives for things that you're trying to describe. Also check out ReverseDictionary.org and RelatedWords.org . Here are some adjectives for willow tree : . You can get the definitions of these willow tree adjectives by clicking on them. You might also like some words related to willow tree (and find more here ).

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Words to Describe willow tree

Below is a list of describing words for willow tree . You can sort the descriptive words by uniqueness or commonness using the button above. Sorry if there's a few unusual suggestions! The algorithm isn't perfect, but it does a pretty good job for most common nouns. Here's the list of words that can be used to describe willow tree :

• inverted blue
• large and massive
• huge, misshapen
• huge and ancient
• tall slender
• magnificent

Popular Searches

As you've probably noticed, adjectives for " willow tree " are listed above. Hopefully the above generated list of words to describe willow tree suits your needs.

If you're getting strange results, it may be that your query isn't quite in the right format. The search box should be a simple word or phrase, like "tiger" or "blue eyes". A search for words to describe "people who have blue eyes" will likely return zero results. So if you're not getting ideal results, check that your search term, " willow tree " isn't confusing the engine in this manner.

Note also that if there aren't many willow tree adjectives, or if there are none at all, it could be that your search term has an abiguous part-of-speech. For example, the word "blue" can be an noun and an adjective. This confuses the engine and so you might not get many adjectives describing it. I may look into fixing this in the future. You might also be wondering: What type of word is willow tree ?

The idea for the Describing Words engine came when I was building the engine for Related Words (it's like a thesaurus, but gives you a much broader set of related words, rather than just synonyms). While playing around with word vectors and the " HasProperty " API of conceptnet, I had a bit of fun trying to get the adjectives which commonly describe a word. Eventually I realised that there's a much better way of doing this: parse books!

Project Gutenberg was the initial corpus, but the parser got greedier and greedier and I ended up feeding it somewhere around 100 gigabytes of text files - mostly fiction, including many contemporary works. The parser simply looks through each book and pulls out the various descriptions of nouns.

Hopefully it's more than just a novelty and some people will actually find it useful for their writing and brainstorming, but one neat little thing to try is to compare two nouns which are similar, but different in some significant way - for example, gender is interesting: " woman " versus " man " and " boy " versus " girl ". On an inital quick analysis it seems that authors of fiction are at least 4x more likely to describe women (as opposed to men) with beauty-related terms (regarding their weight, features and general attractiveness). In fact, "beautiful" is possibly the most widely used adjective for women in all of the world's literature, which is quite in line with the general unidimensional representation of women in many other media forms . If anyone wants to do further research into this, let me know and I can give you a lot more data (for example, there are about 25000 different entries for "woman" - too many to show here).

The blueness of the results represents their relative frequency. You can hover over an item for a second and the frequency score should pop up. The "uniqueness" sorting is default, and thanks to my Complicated Algorithm™, it orders them by the adjectives' uniqueness to that particular noun relative to other nouns (it's actually pretty simple). As you'd expect, you can click the "Sort By Usage Frequency" button to adjectives by their usage frequency for that noun.

Special thanks to the contributors of the open-source mongodb which was used in this project.

Please note that Describing Words uses third party scripts (such as Google Analytics and advertisements) which use cookies. To learn more, see the privacy policy .

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Weeping Willow Trees: Leaves, Flowers (With Pictures) – Identification and Care Guide

The weeping willow is an easily recognizable tree with its graceful cascading branches, narrowly lanceolate leaves, and finger-like flower clusters. The most common weeping willow tree belongs to the genus Salix, and its botanical name is Salix babylonica . The medium- to large-sized, fast-growing weeping willow trees with their pendulous branches and stout grayish trunks thrive near waterways, ponds, and streams.

Most people can quickly identify a weeping willow in the landscape. Of all the types of trees with drooping branches , weeping willows are the most common.

If you have an expansive yard, weeping willows can make an excellent lawn or shade tree. The weeping trees are also incredibly easy to care for. However, there are several things you should know about planting and growing a weeping willow in a residential garden. In some cases, planting a dwarf weeping willow may be a better choice of tree for landscaping small front or backyards .

This article is a guide to identifying a weeping willow tree. Descriptions and pictures of weeping willow leaves, flowers, and bark will help recognize this beautiful tree. In addition, you will get helpful tips on how to plant a weeping willow tree and keep it healthy.

Weeping Willow Tree ( Salix babylonica )

Weeping willow tree can be easily identified by its droopy branches

Weeping willow trees are native to China and belong to the genus Salix and the family Salicaceae . The beautiful deciduous trees grow 30 to 40 ft. (9 – 12 m) tall and wide. The water-loving tree has light, slender green, lance-shaped leaves, grayish-black bark, and clusters of flowers called catkins.

Weeping willow trees can be easily identified by their drooping branches. These pendulous branches gracefully cascade from the tree’s crown, almost reaching the ground. The large weeping willow tree also grows as wide as it is tall, giving it a broad, rounded crown.

Weeping willows are fast-growing trees and can grow about 10 ft. (3 m) per year until they reach their mature height of 40 ft. (12 m), but sometimes 50 ft. (15 m).

Weeping willows live for approximately 30 years, making them relatively short-lived deciduous trees.

The botanical name for weeping willow Salix babylonica comes from a misunderstanding that these weeping trees lined the Euphrates river in ancient Babylon. It was said that “by the rivers of Babylon,” the Jews sat down, wept, and hung their harps on the willows. However, these were poplar trees , not willows. Salix babylonica is also called the Babylon willow .

The USDA growing zone for weeping willows is 6 through 8. The weeping willow tree grows fastest in full sun and partial shade, getting four to six hours of sunlight daily. Like most types of willow trees , the weeping variety thrives in most soil types and moist ground. Therefore, you’ll often see the weeping willow tree growing on the banks of rivers and ponds.

How to Identify Weeping Willow Tree

The easiest way to identify a weeping willow tree in a landscape is by its rounded growth habit. The medium-sized tree has arching branches that sweep down to the ground. The pendulous branches are covered in linear leaves 6” (15 cm) long, and its bark is dark brown or gray-black.

Weeping Willow Leaves

Weeping willow leaves

Leaves on a weeping willow tree are linear, lanceolate-shaped, growing in a simple, alternate arrangement. The slender leaves are light green above and glaucous or grayish-green underneath. Additionally, the smooth narrow tree leaves have serrated margins. Weeping willow leaves measure 3” to 6” (7.5 – 15 cm) long and 0.5” to 0.75” (1.3 – 1.9 cm) wide.

Weeping willow leaves in autumn

In the fall, weeping willow foliage turns a bright golden yellow to greenish-yellow color. After dropping from the tree, the bare reddish to yellowish-brown branches create a spectacular silhouette.

Weeping Willow Flowers

Weeping willow flower

Flowers on a weeping willow bloom in spring and are small, slender yellowish-green clusters called catkins. The dangling finger-like flower clusters measure 1” to 2” (2.5 – 5 cm) long. The insignificant petal-less weeping willow flowers stay on the drooping branches for several weeks.

Weeping willows are dioecious trees, meaning that male and female spring-blooming flower clusters grow on separate trees. The weeping willow male flowers tend to be the showiest thanks to the number of stamens on each catkin.

Weeping Willow Bark

Weeping willow bark

Bark on a weeping willow tree is described as dark gray, dark brown, or almost black. The relatively thin dark-colored bark forms irregular, deep furrows. The long, deep ridges give the tree’s trunk a somewhat rough texture.

Like many species of willow, the weeping willow tree has branches, stems, and twigs in a reddish color. The drooping branches are reddish-brown or yellowish-brown and become more vibrant in the winter.

Dwarf Weeping Willow Tree ( Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’)

Dwarf Weeping Willow ‘Kilmarnock’ (Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’)

The dwarf weeping willow is a small ornamental tree with arching branches with a stiffly pendulous habit. The dwarf weeping tree grows 4 to 8 ft. (1.2 – 2.4 m) tall and 5 ft. (1.5 m) wide. Being a type of pussy weeping willow, the tree has fuzzy bud-like flowers and light green lanceolate leaves.

Dwarf Salix caprea ‘Kilmarnock’ leaves and flowers

Planting a dwarf weeping willow is ideal in compact garden landscapes. You can plant the decorative tree in rich, loamy, moist soil and full sun in USDA zones 4 through 8. However, because of its shrub-like growth, you will have to prune the tree to remove suckering stems that appear.

Types of Weeping Willow Trees

There are several types of weeping willow trees. They all have similar characteristics but differ slightly in their appearance. Some of them grow very tall while others are shorter. They have long branches with drooping leaves and weeping willow tree blooms during spring.

The most common type of weeping willow is the Salix babylonica variety. However, other weeping willow hybrids and cultivars have an equally elegant appearance.

Weeping Golden Willow ( Salix × sepulcralis ‘Chrysocoma’)

Weeping golden willow (Salix × sepulcralis ‘Chrysocoma’)

Weeping golden willow is a deciduous tree recognized by its golden yellow shoots, cascading habit, and deeply fissured grayish-brown bark. This weeping willow variety features narrow, glossy yellow-green lanceolate leaves that turn brilliant gold in the fall. The ‘Chrysocoma’ weeping willow cultivar grows 72 ft. (22 m) tall.

The weeping golden willow has a rounded, irregular crown and bright green foliage. The tree grows best near water sources when growing in full sun to partial shade. Grow the weeping golden willow in USDA zones 5 through 9.

White Weeping Willow ( Salix alba ‘Tristis’)

White weeping willow (salix alba ‘Tristis’)

The white weeping willow is a tall deciduous tree with bright green finely-toothed slender lanceolate leaves growing on drooping yellow branches. The weeping willow’s foliage turns golden yellow in the fall. The wispy, light foliage makes a stunning addition to landscapes as it gently sways in the wind.

The white weeping willow grows between 50 and 70 ft. (15 – 21 m) tall and wide. It’s ideal for planting near streams and ponds. However, due to its invasive and spreading roots, you shouldn’t plant it near buildings or sewer lines. White weeping willow thrives in USDA zones 4 through 8, grown in direct sunlight and medium to wet soils.

Wisconsin Weeping Willow ( Salix x blanda and Salix x pendulina )

Wisconsin Weeping Willow (Salix x blanda and Salix x pendulina)

The Wisconsin weeping willows are beautiful trees that grow 20 to 40 ft. (6 – 12 m) tall. The graceful trees are identified by their drooping branches, covered in slender, lance-shaped leaves measuring 6” (15 cm) long. Additionally, fuzzy yellowish catkins bloom on yellowish-brown stems that sweep to the ground.

Also called the noble willow, the weeping willow with its pendulous branches thrives in moist ground near water sources. However, like all willow trees, you should avoid planting them too close to structures because of their invasive roots. It’s also good to note that the brittle stems of the Wisconsin weeping willow easily break in strong winds.

Where to Plant Weeping Willow

It’s best to plant weeping willows at least 50 ft. (15 m) from your house and underground utilities. Additionally, the roots grow close to the surface, meaning they can interfere with driveways and sidewalks.

Of course, if you have a large enough yard, weeping willows are a beautiful addition to a landscape. The weeping, graceful shape, tolerance of moist soils, and beautiful fall colors make weeping willows valuable ornamental trees. In addition, their extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion.

The most important consideration when planting a weeping willow is drainage and sun exposure. While a weeping willow can thrive in wet spots, it is not recommended to plant it in standing water. However, growing near a freshwater source is a good idea as the tree has heavy moisture requirements.

Here are some helpful tips on planting a weeping willow tree.

Weeping willow light requirements

Plant a weeping willow where it gets partial to full sunshine. Ideally, the decorative trees require at least two to four hours of unfiltered sun each day. However, they also thrive in full sun, meaning they can enjoy six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day.

Weeping willow tree soil

Plant the weeping willow in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. However, the ornamental weeping trees tolerate several soil types, including loamy, sandy, clay, and alkaline. If you need to increase the soil acidity, you can use sulfur to amend the soil.

Weeping willow tree spacing

Weeping willows should be planted with enough space between them to allow the invasive root system space to grow. The roots of weeping willow trees can spread 30 to 45 ft. (9 – 14 m). Therefore, ensure trees grow at least 50 ft. (15 m) away from buildings.

Additionally, the trees can grow 40 to 50 ft. (12 to 15 m) tall in the space of a few years. Therefore, make sure the tree is planted well away from overhead power lines.

How to Plant a Weeping Willow Tree

To plant a weeping willow tree, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This hole size will ensure that the roots have room to grow. Next, set the root ball in the middle of the hole, ensuring the trunk’s soil line is level with the ground.

The next step in planting a weeping willow tree involves backfilling the hole. First, fill the hole with native soil until it is halfway up the root ball. However, don’t tamp down the ground because you will prevent good drainage. Next, pour in 2 gallons (9 l) of water. Lastly, fill the hole to the top and press down the soil slightly.

Although weeping willows are somewhat tolerant of drought, they require regular watering during the first year. Therefore, water the tree’s root area once a week to ensure the ground is evenly moist. After the first year, you can water the tree less frequently.

Top tip when planting a weeping willow: Brown leaves could be a sign that the newly-planted tree lacks water. Therefore, increase the watering frequency to encourage healthy growth.

How to Care for Weeping Willow Tree

Weeping willow trees are relatively care-free. After the tree is established, you should water the tree enough to prevent the ground from going dry. Light pruning in early spring can help remove dead branches, and you can add a balanced fertilizer if the lanceolate leaves look pale.

Let’s look in more detail at how to care for a weeping willow tree.

How to water weeping willow tree

Weeping willows have moderate to high moisture requirements, especially in the first year or two. You may need to water a newly-planted weeping willow twice a week. However, once established, you can cut watering to once a week during dry weather. It would be best to water the tree as often as necessary to keep the soil moist.

Fertilizing weeping willow tree

Weeping willow trees usually don’t require additional fertilizer to grow healthy. However, pale foliage is a sign that the tree needs a nutrient boost. Therefore, you could apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 in the spring. Then, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and spread the tree fertilizer around the tree’s root area.

Pruning weeping willow tree

Pruning is necessary to help a young tree develop a central leader. Prune weeping willows in late winter or early spring and remove any branches growing in a deep ‘V’ shape at the tree’s base, as these are more likely to break. You can also lightly prune branches to encourage new growth and bushy foliage.

Weeping willow propagation

Take hardwood cuttings in late fall or winter to propagate a weeping willow tree. The cuttings should be 24” (60 cm) long with no green, soft tissue. To take a cutting, make a straight cut at the base of the stem, just below a bud. Then make a diagonal cut around 9” (23 cm) above the bud.

To grow a weeping willow from a cutting, place the straight end directly in the ground about 4” (10 cm) deep. Alternatively, you can start cuttings off in a pot of compost. Regardless of whether they grow in the ground or in a pot, keeping the soil evenly moist is vital. New shoots should develop in spring.

Weeping Willow Tree Problems

Weeping willow trees are prone to several problems. For example, their branches tend to be brittle and easily break in strong winds. Also, their invasive roots can become a problem for sewer lines and underground utilities. In addition, pests like aphids , willow leaf beetles, and bagworms can cause foliage loss.

Common pests affecting weeping willow tree growth

Here are some common pests known to cause willow tree problems:

Bagworms: These weeping willow pests are 2” (5 cm) long silk worms that live in tents that look like a collection of sticks hanging from tree branches. The caterpillars can defoliate trees.

Bagworm moth larvae with the bag

Gypsy moth caterpillars: Active in June, the furry black and brown caterpillars feed on leaves during May and June. The caterpillars defoliate weeping willow trees and cause stunted growth.

Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) caterpillar

Willow leaf beetles: The tiny metallic greenish-blue beetles gorge their way through willow leaves, skeletonizing them in the process. The beetles are a problem for weeping willow trees in late May.

Willow leaf beetle (Plagiodera versicolora)

Common diseases affecting weeping willow tree growth

Unfortunately, several diseases can affect weeping willow trees. Problematic diseases for weeping willows include cankers, leaf spot, powdery mildew, willow scab, and crown gall. Signs of weeping willow diseases include blemishes on leaves, dieback, and even tree death.

The best way to prevent problems with a weeping willow tree is to keep the tree healthy. This means providing adequate water to avoid stressing the tree. In addition, it’s a good idea to eliminate leaf litter promptly to prevent tree diseases from spreading.

Discover many more types of willow trees and shrubs .

Related articles:

• Small or Dwarf Weeping Trees for Landscaping
• Small Trees for Landscaping Compact Spaces

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alpacinoutd Senior Member

Words to describe this tree.

Discussion in ' Word Mechanics ' started by alpacinoutd , Apr 21, 2020 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Hello everyone, As a writing practice, I have decided to describe this tree: I thought that maybe I could use the verb "rear up" here. What do you think? The tree rears up in all lushness, all glory. I thought I mention its age. It has seen it all. It has been standing here for hundreds of years. For hundreds of years, birds have been flitting on its topmost and low-hanging branches. Do you think I can say the tree is "world-weary" because it has seen it all? And then I thought I use the word "stoic" to suggest it has stoically tolerated all the forces of mother nature (wind, rain, snow, storm). What do you think?  

Wreybies Thrice Retired Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Hm... Rear up? Not for me, no. I see something very different. She's been around long enough to remember when the people spoke differently, lilted their words in another way. Clandestine lovers have sought her shade and her unquestionable confidence across the decades. The secrets she holds are as many as the leaves on her branches and those that carpet the dusty soil where she reclines into the landscape, her bones creaking, her face turned to the sun. We dance across the fields, our lives tiny and swift as starlings, where hers is immense and as slow as mountains.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Wreybies said: ↑ Hm... Rear up? Not for me, no. I see something very different. She's been around long enough to remember when the people spoke differently, lilted their words in another way. Clandestine lovers have sought her shade and her unquestionable confidence across the decades. The secrets she holds are as many as the leaves on her branches and those that carpet the dusty soil where she reclines into the landscape, her bones creaking, her face turned to the sun. We dance across the fields, our lives tiny and swift as starlings, where hers is immense and as slow as mountains. Click to expand...

OurJud Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); You seem to be making an awful lot of these 'describe it for me' posts. I do hope you're learning from them rather than just carbon copying the examples you like.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); OurJud said: ↑ You seem to be making an awful lot of these 'describe it for me' posts. I do hope you're learning from them rather than just carbon copying the examples you like. Click to expand...

Oxymaroon Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Trees don't rear as a rule. And this one looks actually rather squat. Please don't use the word 'gnarled'. Stoic and world-weary both work - or just weary. Olive trees can live a couple of thousand years; this one looks past its first few hundred. Depending on where it grows, you could mention some of the historical events it may have witnessed. Garibaldi may have leaned up against its trunk to take his midday cheese and wine; in its saplinghood, it may have watched Julius Caesar's troops march off to conquer Britain. Of course, how you describe landmarks must depend on the POV of the character and how they figure in his story.  

Xoic Prognosticator of Arcana Ridiculosum Contributor Blogerator

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); alpacinoutd said: ↑ For hundreds of years, birds has been flitting on its topmost and low-hanging branches. Click to expand...

Seven Crowns Moderator Staff Supporter Contributor Contest Winner 2022

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); A body positive Ent.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Oxymaroon said: ↑ Trees don't rear as a rule. And this one looks actually rather squat. Please don't use the word 'gnarled'. Stoic and world-weary both work - or just weary. Olive trees can live a couple of thousand years; this one looks past its first few hundred. Depending on where it grows, you could mention some of the historical events it may have witnessed. Garibaldi may have leaned up against its trunk to take his midday cheese and wine; in its saplinghood, it may have watched Julius Caesar's troops march off to conquer Britain. Of course, how you describe landmarks must depend on the POV of the character and how they figure in his story. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); alpacinoutd said: ↑ Thanks. Good tips! But I don't seem to recall mentioning or using "gnarled"! Click to expand...

Aaron Smith Banned Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Looks like a mad wizard conjuring up black magic to me.  

Thorn Cylenchar Senior Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); For more than two score decades she had watched over the rolling hills and valleys with calm patience. The changing seasons were a blink of the eye to her and she marveled at the brevity of the small, noisy creatures that walked, crawled, scampered, hopped, climbed and swooped among her branches. The wind, sun and rain where her companions, visiting to quench her thirst and feed her hunger, tickling her leaves and wrapping themselves around her old, twisted limbs like a dear friend. But she was getting old and she knew it, her branches had lost the smooth suppleness of youth and ascended slowly to ponderous immobility under the thick armor of the ages. But, she was satisfied, her children, and children's great great grand children clustered around her feet and spread out to the surrounding dells, providing homes and food for an innumerable number of the noisy creatures that seemed to rush headlong from birth through life before she was even really aware of them.  

matwoolf Banned Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Aaron Smith said: ↑ Looks like a mad wizard conjuring up black magic to me. Click to expand...

jannert Retired Mod Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Thorn Cylenchar said: ↑ For more than two score decades she had watched over the rolling hills and valleys with calm patience. The changing seasons were a blink of the eye to her and she marveled at the brevity of the small, noisy creatures that walked, crawled, scampered, hopped, climbed and swooped among her branches. The wind, sun and rain where her companions, visiting to quench her thirst and feed her hunger, tickling her leaves and wrapping themselves around her old, twisted limbs like a dear friend. But she was getting old and she knew it, her branches had lost the smooth suppleness of youth and ascended slowly to ponderous immobility under the thick armor of the ages. But, she was satisfied, her children, and children's great great grand children clustered around her feet and spread out to the surrounding dells, providing homes and food for an innumerable number of the noisy creatures that seemed to rush headlong from birth through life before she was even really aware of them. Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); jannert said: ↑ I really like that last sentence ...about how creatures live their lives before she's aware of them. Kind of like how we view insects, isn't it? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); alpacinoutd said: ↑ If I were to go in a different direction, could I ascribe "aloofness" and "apathy" to a tree? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); alpacinoutd said: ↑ I also like how it implies a sort of interconnectedness in nature between creatures but at the same time I get the feeling from your writing that the tree "is not" aloof and reluctant or apathetic. Well done! If I were to go in a different direction, could I ascribe "aloofness" and "apathy" to a tree? Like the tree does not care about any of the infinitesimal noisy creatures flitting in among her branches. What do you guys think? Click to expand...

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); One nice thing about squat trees is they aren't going to fall on your house. I had about a hundred footer in my back yard fall a few years ago when it was just short of tornado conditions outside, it hit the ground so hard it sounded like a massive explosion and felt like an earthquake. Luckily it fell across the yard diagonally and not right toward the house or there wouldn't be a house anymore. It just slapped the corner of the roof and dented the gutter a bit. I had to buy a chain saw and spend a year and a half cutting it up and chopping it into firewood. I got really freaked out for a while about big trees close to people's houses, and since then I've seen a few houses that got partially demolished that way in the neighborhood. A few people died that way, some in their beds, and there are houses still partially covered by big blue tarps they put on to keep the weather out until they can fix the damage. In fact, knowing that now, I can look at the overhead view in Google Maps and see those blue tarps on houses scattered all over the city.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Al, I hope you forgive me for posting these on your thread. Here's the corner of my roof. ... And here's the craziest thing—it fell right between the table and the tiki torch without damaging either one: This is from the cutting-up process. I'd describe it as a fallen dinosaur being dismantled:  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Xoic said: ↑ Al, I hope you forgive me for posting these on your thread. Here's the corner of my roof. ... And here's the craziest thing—it fell right between the table and the tiki torch without damaging either one: This is from the cutting-up process. I'd describe it as a fallen dinosaur being dismantled: Click to expand...

Iain Aschendale Lying, dog-faced pony Marine Supporter Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); That first pic looks like a bonsai tree writ large. I know that might seem like it doesn't make sense, but the true bonsai artists can, over the years, induce all sorts of odd proportions in their charges that would never occur in full-scale trees.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); Thanks for the pictures folks. You all live in beautiful leafy places! Do you think drawing a comparison between a tree and a woman might work? And likening her leaves to hair falling down her shoulders?  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_38eb15a17c61a28b0be3db9d4fe5a056'); }); alpacinoutd said: ↑ Thanks for the pictures folks. You all live in beautiful leafy places! Do you think drawing a comparison between a tree and a woman might work? And likening her leaves to hair falling down her shoulders? Click to expand...

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Under a Willow Tree: Demonstrating the Use of Creative Writing in Understanding Architecture

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Ancient Trees – Writing prompts and Resources

In ancient trees , Folklore , Oak Apple Day , Owain Glyndwr , Pitchford Hall , Uncategorised by Kateinnes_123.@hW 22nd May 2020

Ancient Trees Resource Pack : to be used in conjunction with the video on the Facebook Folk Community Group site https://tinyurl.com/y7yps43s

The Shelton Oak  by David Parkes – 19 th  century

Fairy Folk by an old gnarled tree  – by Arthur Rackham

Arthur Rackham, illustrator, paid very close attention to trees in his work, glorying in their detail and character. 

Examples of writing about ancient oaks, other trees, and living and seeking shelter in them:

My Side of the Mountain – by Jean Craighead George

“I am on my mountain in a tree home that people have passed without ever knowing that I am here. The house is a hemlock tree six feet in diameter, and must be as old as the mountain itself. I cam upon it last summer and dug and burned it out until I made a snug cave in the tree that I now call home.

         My bed is on the right as you enter, and is made of ash slats and covered with deerskin. On the left is a small fireplace about knee high. It is of clay and stones. It has a chimney that leads the smoke out through a knothole. I chipped out three other knotholes to let fresh air in. The air coming in is bitter cold. It must be zero outside, and yet I can sit here inside my tree and write with bare hands. The fire is small, too. It doesn’t take much fire to warm this tree room.”

An extract from In the Tree House at Night – by James L Dickey

a beautiful, eerie poem in which the tree becomes a link between earthly life and the life beyond.

For complete poem:

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/42718/in-the-tree-house-at-night

THE OAK by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Live thy Life, Young and old, Like yon oak, Bright in spring, Living gold;

Summer-rich Then; and then Autumn-changed Soberer-hued Gold again.

All his leaves Fall’n at length, Look, he stands, Trunk and bough Naked strength. 

Dendrochronology (written about the Acton Round Oak)

by Kate Innes

Mary Webb –  a Shropshire writer and folklorist – 

From a description of  Hazel Woodus in  Gone to Earth

“Her passion, no less intense, was for freedom, for the wood-track, for green places where soft feet scudded and eager eyes peered out and adventurous lives were lived up in the tree-tops, down in the moss.”

From ‘The Joy of Fragrance’ in  The Spring of Joy  by Mary Webb 1917

‘A little wood I know has in May among its oaks and beeches many white pillars of gean trees, each with its own air round it. At long intervals a large, soft flower wanders down, vaguely honeyed, mixing its breath with the savour of sphagnum moss, and resting among the wood-sorrel. The wood-pigeons speak of love together in their deep voices, unashamed, too sensuous to be anything but pure. Among the enchanted pillars, on the carpet of pale sorrel, with a single flower cool in the hand, one is in the very throne-room of white light. A little farther on the air is musky from the crowded minarets of the horse chestnut – white marble splashed with rose – where the bumble bee drones.’

The Mary Webb Society notes that: 

“Mary Webb’s love and intimate knowledge of the county permeates all her work. She had an extraordinary perception of the minutiae of nature, and it is this keen observation that gives her prose its unique quality. In her introduction to  Precious Bane  she writes ’ Shropshire is a county where the dignity of ancient things lingers long, and I have been fortunate not only in being born and brought up in its magical atmosphere, and in having many friends in farm and cottage who, by pleasant talk and reminiscence have fired the imagination, but also in having the companionship of such a mind as was my father’s- a mind stored with old tales and legends that did not come from books, and rich with an abiding love for the beauty of forest and harvest field…’  “

More information about ancient trees and tree houses:

More information about the Shelton Oak, including photographs:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shelton_Oak

The Ancient Tree Forum finds the Bull Oak – a boundary tree and a shelter for a bull for years

https://www.facebook.com/AncientTreeForum/posts/the-bull-oak-still-exists-steven-falk-has-had-a-really-interesting-week-trying-t/2114877528577136/

Clip from BBC programme about the eccentric occupant of the Pitchford treehouse in the 1940’s:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p04bspzg

Off topic but fascinating – Pitchford Ghosts by Caroline Colthurst:

http://www.pitchfordestate.com/pitchford-ghosts

Ancient Tree Folklore Writing Prompts:

Choose any or all of these ideas to start writing about the tree as a location or as a character or its importance to you.

1. You are climbing a tree – where are you? What does it feel like? What sounds do you hear? How does it feel as you make your way up? 

2. You are living in a tree house – describe that – how is it constructed and who is welcome to visit you?

3. You are living inside a hollow tree – describe your living quarters, describe how it sounds and what it feels like to live there 

4. You meet the spirit of the tree – describe the spirit – how do he/she feel about your incursion into its domain? Do you have a conversation? 

5. Write a fairy tale about someone who climbs a tree to escape from danger, and finds more than they expected!

6. Write a story told with the voice of the tree – perhaps the Royal Oak – or another tree that has seen incredible adventures of mice and men. Or write a story about a creatures living ‘adventurous lives’ in the treetops.

Prepared by Kate Innes – Author of ‘The Errant Hours’ and other adventures

@KateInnes2  @kateinneswriter

www.kateinneswriter.com

[email protected]

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