Take the tour ×  I've come across two kanji, which are both read
やなぎ　and both mean "willow".  From what I've found out so far,
has an On'yomi of リュウ　and it seems to mean more "things with the
qualities of a willow"; while 　has an On'yomi of ヨウ　and means
the type of tree. That being said it also seems to be a name
element.  Can anyone confirm this or shed some more light on the
subject?   share|improve this question add comment  2 Answers
up vote 5 down vote accepted  やなぎ リュウ:    • Used for willows
which have their branches hanging down including しだれやなぎ. Can
refer more broadly to the tall deciduous trees in the willow
family and as a general term for shrubs as well according to
Kanjigen.   • Has a frequency of 1169/2501 and is classified as
a general usage Kanji according to Kanjidic.  かわ やなぎ ヨウ:    •
Used for willows which have their branches going upwards
including かわやなぎ and ねこやなぎ according to Kanjigen.   • Has a
frequency of 1815/2501 so is less common and is classified as a
人名用{じんめいよう} Kanji for use in pe