Raw Willow – Rouge Belge

Rouge Belge raw willow is recognised for the robustness of its stems and its excellent structural strength, making it a particularly well-suited material for work that demands durability. Grown in France in the Indre-et-Loire département and certified organic, it is harvested by hand using secateurs directly at the stool to ensure consistent quality and uniformity.

This unpeeled willow has a natural colour ranging from deep red to rich brown, with pronounced tonal variation as shown in the photo. Once soaked, it retains good pliability while maintaining high resistance, allowing solid pieces to be shaped without compromise.

Reliable and long-lasting, it is ideally suited to professional basketmakers and craftspeople looking for a willow that performs well for stakes, structural work, and pieces requiring strength over time.

* Origin: grown in France (Indre-et-Loire)
* Harvest: hand-cut with secateurs
* Certification: organic farming
* Finish: raw, unpeeled
* Stems: robust, regular, good uniformity
* Flexibility: good after soaking
* Uses: staking, structural work, heavy-duty basketry
Botanical name: Salix fragilis 'Rouge Belge'