Willow (Weeping Willow, Pussy Willow, White Willow, Sallow, Osier)

• Common Name: Willow (Weeping Willow, Pussy Willow, White Willow, Sallow, Osier)
• Latin Name: Salix spp.
• Family Name: Salicaceae

This tree, with over 350 species, is not listed as toxic, and it does grow in the native habitat of some tortoises (for example the Testudo hermanni in Southern France).  However, its leaves contain tannins and the bark and sap contain salicin, a substance that chemically resembles aspirin and is TOXIC in large quantities.  In the absence of evidence regarding the amount of salicin in the plant, it is probably best to avoid feeding the leaves to tortoises and pick up any leaves and catkins that fall into the enclosure, although if a stray leaf is eaten then there should be nothing to worry about.