Scepticism in nomenclature and taxonomy of the genus Salix L (Salicaceae) from Spiti valley, Himachal Pradesh, India

The existing literature on Salix in the cold desert of trans-Himalayan Spiti lacks taxonomic studies that facilitate field identification. The absence of comprehensive taxonomic work in Spiti has hindered knowledge of this genus, leading to confusion among researchers. To address this, the ICFRE – Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Conifer Campus, Shimla, undertook a study on the field taxonomic aspects of Salix, aiming to develop a simple identification key for Spiti. This paper discusses 13 Salix species and one variety found in the Spiti valley, incorporating both field observations and species reported by other authors but not observed during this study period. During sample verification visits to renowned herbaria (DD and BSI, Dehradun), authenticating sheets were seldom found. This taxonomic impediment is hindering the field identification of Salix in Spiti. The paper focuses on the taxonomic confusion surrounding Salix, particularly concerning the two cultivated/planted tree forms, S alba and S fragilis, both likely introductions to the region. Scepticism in this field arises from uncertainties or disagreements regarding classification, naming conventions or precise species identification.