It grows in many types of arctic and alpine habitats in the north, and mountainous areas in the southern part of its range.

[2] Salix planifolia is a shrub varying in size from low and bushy, to long thickets, to a treelike form 9 m (30 ft) in height.

The leaves are generally oval in shape with pointed tips, measuring up to 6.5 cm long.

They are smooth-edged or serrated, glossy on the upper surface, and sometimes with silky hairs.

The inflorescence is a catkin of flowers a few centimeters long.