Salix mucronata subsp. woodii in a riverbed

Salix mucronata subsp. woodii, commonly the flute willow or Natal willow, is widely used medicinally by indigenous populations for ailments that range from headaches, fevers, burns and urinary complaints.

The ground of any riverbed was believed to be hard enough for fording by wagon or horse if this willow grew there. Green branches have been used for weaving baskets. Sticks from this indigenous tree were used in warding off storms (and even lightning), whilst the wood was also used to start a fire by stick friction (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Coates Palgrave; 2002).