Coyote Willow

Great Basin National Park has seven climate zones as it rises to more than 13000 feet above sea level. These varied zones were part of the wonder I felt every time I went for a hike and saw the changes in vegetation and wildlife. The riparian zones that wove throughout all the landscapes of the park were especially surprising and beautiful. One plant that seemed to thrive by the rivers and streams regardless of surrounding climate was coyote willow. I saw this swaying tree among sagebrush and juniper as well as mountain mahogany and aspens.

I wanted to capture the delicate beauty and movement of the leaves in this wrap. It is very light, being knit out of mohair, and the buttons are light as well so it doesn’t weigh it down. It is a delicate wrap to just keep you warm when summer begins to turn to fall.

Here is some technical information I will be including with the pattern:

Coyote willow thrives in the Great Basin where it is a pioneering species; one of the first to colonize flood deposits. It is primarily found along rivers and streams where it provides shelter for many animals and is the favorite food of beavers. American Indians used willow for basket weaving as well as to reduce fever and relieve pain because willow bark’s active ingredient is the same as in aspirin. The long narrow leaves are a beautiful, draping green that adds softness to the Great Basin landscape. This artwork was produced under the Darwin Lambert Artist in Residence Program at Great Basin National Park.