Aravot

One of the four species mentioned in the Torah to be taken on Sukkot is ערבי נחל which are translated as the leafy branch of a specific type of willow tree. They are described by the torah as willows of the river because most of this species grows by the river.

Signs of a Kosher Aravah

1. The leaves are supposed to be drawn out and have a smooth edge.
2. Although the leaves usually have a smooth edge, if the edge has small bumps and is serrated like a small sickle it is nonetheless Kosher for the mitzvah. However, if the leaves are rounded, the edges are serrated like a saw, and the stem is white it is not Kosher for the mitzvah.