Salix fragilis - Crack willow

 A large tree in maturity, growing up to around 25m. It has a broadly domed crown, thick bole and large base. It’s leaves are long and glossy, however less glossy on the underside and slightly paler. They are widely spaced on the shoots and have short green petioles. Crack Willow bark is a dull grey-brown/ yellow with thick overlapping ridges. It’s branches generally arise from the trees base. 

   It produces yellow, pendulous, male catkins that open around the same time as the leaves in the early spring. Female catkins (on separate trees) are green and pendulous.

  The specimen I have pictured has been planted, amongst others, as an ornamental plant on the UMIST campus in Manchester City centre, where it and other specimens appear to be thriving and look very attractive.