Willows beyond wetlands:: Uses of Salix L. species for environmental projects

Species of Salix characterized by particular physiological adaptations and ecological resilience are predisposed to use in conservation and environmental projects in many climatic zones and adverse microsite conditions. The economic importance of Salix is currently increasing and emerging in a wide array of practical applications to restore damaged ecosystems. Here we describe the ecology, physiological characteristics and agricultural requirements of Salix and present an integrated picture based on literature review, of current uses for willows well beyond wetland and riparian situations. These uses include ecosystem restoration, phytoremediation (phytoextraction, phytodegradation, rhizofiltration and phytostabilization), bioengineering (water and wind erosion, and protective structures), and biomass production for both fuel and fiber.