Willow trees as a symbol of grief

Abroad, the willow was in ancient days worn by young girls, as a symbol of grief for one of their own sex who died young: "Lay a garland on my hearse, Of the dismal yew; Maidens, willow branches wear, Say I died true." The poets often allude to the willow: "A willow garland thou did'st send Perfumed last day to me; Which did but only this portend, I was forsook by thee. Since so it is, I'll tell thee what, To-morrow thou shall see Me wear the willow, after that To die upon the tree." HERRICK.