Among the simple, alternate-leaved trees in Wisconsin, the genus Salix shares the unique character of a single visible outer bud scale, making the willows as a group relatively easy to recognize. In addition to the 7 species of willow trees listed in this web site there are 17 species of willow shrubs in Wisconsin, also with simple, alternate leaves (but see S. purpurea) and a single outer bud scale. The willow species are difficult to distinguish and any "shortcuts" around the proven keys are likely to result in frequent errors. See the key to tree willows for helpful characters to identify the species, or try the more thorough keys in Michigan Flora vol 2.

The leaves of Salix bebbiana are simple and alternate and they are mostly entire margined, although a few coarse teeth may sometimes be present. The upper surface of the leaf is usually clearly rugose (veins are impressed). It is sometimes shrubby, but the growth form is more often that of a small tree, often multiple-stemmed, but the stems remaining close and nearly vertical. It is the only Wisconsin tree willow with entire leaf margins, or margins with few and irregular coarse teeth.