Calle Sauce

The willow gives its name to this street in the Hispanoamérica neighborhood, in Chamartín. The tree belongs to the genus Salix, a Latin word linked to a root connected with water: the willow takes root on the banks of rivers and streams, hence its reputation as a plant that seeks moisture. The most recognizable variety is the weeping willow, with long branches that hang down until they almost brush the ground. No record survives of why this tree was chosen to name the street. The area belonged to the municipality of Chamartín de la Rosa before being absorbed into Madrid, and its development came late. In the nearby streets the names of plants recur, so Sauce seems to fit into that small street herbarium rather than answer to any particular tribute. The result is a short street in northern Madrid, in a neighborhood dotted with embassies and squares bearing American names, such as Lima and Cuzco. A riverbank tree for a name, with no river nearby.