Braided raw material Salix

Salix is a shrub or small tree that thrives in arid and semi-arid environments. Its young branchlets are covered with purple hairs, which eventually disappear as the branches mature. The leaves are typically oblanceolate or linear-lanceolate, measuring between 1.5 to 5 cm in length, with serrated edges. The male inflorescences are slightly longer than the female ones, usually ranging from 1.5 to 2.3 cm in length. This plant is primarily found in regions such as Inner Mongolia, Liaoning, and Jilin, where it commonly grows on sand dunes. Due to its tough branches, it is often used for weaving baskets and handicrafts. Salix is well-adapted to harsh desert conditions and is one of the few plants capable of growing in saline soils. Its young branches are yellow, and its leaves are either lance-shaped or linear. The plant is highly resilient, able to withstand sand pressure and has strong root systems that help in stabilizing the soil. It is known for its vigorous sprouting ability, making it an ideal species for afforestation projects aimed at preventing desertification. One of its natural enemies is the Salix argentatus moth, which is commonly found in river valley wetlands. It is distributed across several provinces, including Inner Mongolia, Hebei, Shanxi, Shaanxi, Gansu, Qinghai, and Sichuan. Due to its ecological importance, Salix plays a crucial role in northern China's sand control efforts. It is one of the primary species selected for the "Three-North Shelter Forest" project, a large-scale afforestation initiative designed to combat desertification and protect farmland from wind erosion. Its adaptability, resilience, and ecological benefits make it a key player in environmental restoration and sustainable land management.