According to Pellett, there are over 160 species of willows. They are confined to the cooler temperate regions of the United States and Canada. There are a few varieties that grow in the southern states west to California. In the North, weeping willow and pussy willow (Salix discolor) are among the earliest of blooming plants and the nectar and pollen gathered is used for feeding brood.
Description of nectar
Honey produced by the bees from the nectar according the Frank Pellett's book American Honey Plants is "a dark amber and bitter." As indicated above, much of it is used in raising brood.
Description of pollen
We have no sample of pollen. This will be added this year.
Description of pollen grain
The
pollen grain of willow shown to the left appears much like the pollen of the
maple family. It is a bit smaller in size.