Diamond Willow on the Trail
January 7th, 2007 | News | 0 Comments
Diamond willow is a tough fibrous wood which is native to this area. It is most commonly found growing in clumps. The leaves are long and narrow and the bark is dark gray, rough and very tough. The diamonds are formed from a fungus which kills the sapwood in the affected area. These areas become dormant and the rest of the tree keeps growing leaving the diamonds.
The willow is picked between July and August when the sap is running. It is then peeled, revealing the diamonds. After drying for a year, the wood is ready to work.
The photo is diamond willow plant stand in the Clearwater Lodge. It actually started out many, many years ago an ashtray but works best for us with as a plant stand. There is great handmade diamond willow furniture at a number of the lodges on the trail to check out on your next visit here.
Lynn
