Black Cottonwood
The Black Cottonwood, 'Populus trichocarpa', is the largest of the American poplars, growing 2'-3' (or more) in diameter and well over 100' tall with a broad open crown!
It is also known also as Balsam cottonwood, Western balsam poplar, and California poplar. A super fast growing tree, it produces winter buds that are long-pointed and are covered by a resinous substance, hence the name 'balsamifera’. The flowers appear as pendant catkins.
The Black Cottonwood prefers moist, well drained sites with sun to partial shade. This tree will become more drought tolerant when it is established.
Many kinds of wildlife use the foliage, twigs, and buds for food, and the tree is planted for shade and in windbreaks and shelterbelts. Its fragrance is especially pronounced as the leaves unfold. In the spring the leaf buds (as they swell) and the young leaves provide a pleasing fragrance of balsam. These dark green leaves contrast beautifully with its white trunk.
Black Cottonwood is a fantastic wildlife tree that provides nesting for birds, food for wildlife, and leaves for butterfly larvae!
* Super fast growing
* Drought tolerant
* Food and shelter for wildlife
Plant Facts
| Family | Populus trichocarpa |
|---|---|
| Foliage | Green |
| Mature Height | 75 - 90 feet |
| Mature Spread | 30 - 35 feet |
| Soil | Widely Adaptable |
| Zones | 5-8 |
| Moisture | Moist |
| Mature Form | Upright |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun - Partial Sun |
| Fall Color | Yellow |
Quick Overview
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