How to Identify Arctic Willow

Arctic willow can be found throughout the tundras of North America, where food is otherwise scarce. Though it provides food for animals, it is very nutritious to humans, as it is rich in vitamin C and even contains aspirin-like compounds. It is also one of the few edible plants of the tundra, making it important to know for wilderness survival. Read on to learn how to identify Arctic willow.

Instructions

    • 1

      Find open tundra or a cool alpine region.

    • 2

      Look for a short shrub, or a densely clumped mat on the surface of the ground. It will have small, round, shiny green leaves. The leaves of the arctic willow are often covered in thin, silvery hairs.

    • 3

      Eat the leaves raw for a large dose of vitamin C. Arctic willow contains much more vitamin C than an orange.

    • 4

      Collect the young shoots. Peel them open, and eat raw the tender part inside. This can also be done with the parts of the plant that grow underground, just beneath the surface of the tundra.

    • 5

      Chew the twigs to clean your teeth. This is also believed to help fight cavities.

    • 6

      Make a tea from the bark to use as an aspirin substitute.