The currently accepted scientific name for Alaska bog willow is Salix fuscescens Anderss. There are no recognized subspecies, varieties, or forms. Coladonato, Milo. 1993. Alaska bog willow occurs throughout most of the Alaskan boreal forest except in the Aleutian Islands and the along the southeastern coast of Alaska. Willows are a staple year-round food for moose.
All willows produce salacin, which is closely related to aspirin.
Like all willows, Alaska bog willow's primary mode of reproduction is sexual. It produces an abundance of small, lightweight seed. Obligate Initial Community Species Alaska bog willow is an early seral species. Like other willows it probably becomes abundant after disturbances that open the canopy and expose the mineral soil. It probably sprouts prolifically immediately after fire.