Through this translation, English-speaking readers will gain access to an
authoritative reference on willows by a distinguished Russian
botanist whose treatment of the genus Salix has been the standard for
decades. The monograph is dedicated to willows growing on the territory of
the former Soviet Union and adjacent countries including all of Europe,
North Africa, Asia Minor, West and Northeast China, Mongolia, and North
Korea. The author observed many species in their natural environment,
cultivated some of them, and accomplished a vast study of domestic and
foreign herbarium collections.
The book offers a comprehensive general discussion on the morphology,
variability, ability to produce hybrids, evolution, and ecology of the
willows along with detailed treatments for about 135 species. Each
individual species entry features a review of nomenclature and
literature, a description of the species' habit and habitats, and, if
needed, a brief discussion. The central piece of each species entry is an original map depicting its geographical distribution within the Old World. Each map is accompanied by a detailed verbal description of the species area boundaries. Species are grouped in 26 sections, each section
featuring an identification key to its members. To help the reader gain a
better understanding of willows, the general key to the sections is provided along with a brief characteristic of each section.
Description of methods for observing, collecting, and studying
willows makes the book valuable not only for experienced investigators but
also beginners and amateurs. The book may be used as a reference as well as
guide or manual for the study of one of the most difficult and confusing plant
genera.
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