The Common Osier (Salix viminalis - can also be known simply as Osier) is a many-branched shrub of the Willow Family (Salicaceae). They usually grow to between 3 m and 6 m in height. It has long, straight branches with exceptionally long leaves, around 10-15 cm in length. The flexible twigs means that it is commonly used in basketry.
The leaves are dark green, with a silky grey underside, the male catkins are yellow and oval-shaped, and appear in early Spring before the leaves. In contrast, the female catkins are longer and more cylindrical, appearing around the same time as the leaves.
Osiers are commonly found by streams and other wet places. They are widespread throughout both Britain and Ireland, but only at lower altitudes. It is one of the least variable willows, but it will hybridise with others.
{Common nuisance} (Law), that which is deleterious to the health or comfort or sense of decency of the community at large.
{Common prayer}, the liturgy of the Church of England, or of the Protestant Episcopal church of the United States, which all its clergy are enjoined to use.
{Common because of} {vicinage or neighborhood}, the right of the inhabitants of each of two townships, lying contiguous to each other, which have usually intercommoned with one another, to let their beasts stray into the other's fields.
osaria, auxaria, a bundle of osier or willow twigs), the common term under which are included the various species, varieties and hybrids of the genus Salix, used in the manufacture of baskets.
The chief species in cultivation are: Salix viminalis (the commonosier) and S. triandra, S. amygdalina, S. purpurea and S. fragilis, which botanically are willows and not osiers.
Some harder varieties, known as stone osiers and raised on drier upland soils, are peeled and used for fine work.
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