Photo of Populus trichocarpa form by Walter Siegmund

Photo by Walter Siegmund

This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 license.

Show all photos

Populus trichocarpa

Also Known As

  • Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa
  • Populus balsamifera subsp. trichocarpa
  • Black Cottonwood
  • California Poplar
  • Cottonwood
  • Western Balsam Poplar

Plant type

tree

size

  • H: 60'-80'
  • W: 10'-20'

planting zones

  • 5a-9b

More Options

Populus trichocarpa plant details

Populus trichocarpa is a broadleaf deciduous tree with gold and green foliage. Attracts birds and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - shade and even moisture - regular water. Does well in average and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Populus trichocarpa

Plant type: tree
Plant family: salicaceae
Foliage: deciduous gold and green
Mature size: 10 FT - 20 FT - wide, 60 FT - 80 FT - tall
Uses: fragrant, shade tree

GROWING CONDITIONS for Populus trichocarpa

USDA Zones: 5a - 9b
Sun exposure: sun - shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular
Soil needs: average and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

One of the largest cottonwoods (to 80') and one of the prettiest with shiny, balsam-scented buds and shimmering, dark-green, silver-reverse leaves; one of the first to leaf-out in spring and last to lose its foliage in fall. S/M-W
Black cottonwood is a very fast-growing and potentially large tree. growing up to 100-150 feet tall. It is easy to establish, and useful for shade. It is also valued for its fast growth and scented foliage in spring. The aggressive root systems of black cottonwood are effective soil stabilizer, watch out for foundations and drainage systems. Native to California and also found elsewhere in North America and beyond. Black cottonwood provides food and cover for a variety of wildlife species, including deer, elk, and beaver. Large birds use the crowns for nesting sites. Disinfectant properties of resin from buds were discovered by Native Americans, who used the resin to treat sore throats, coughs, lung pain, and rheumatism. Found in streambanks. Communitites located in Yellow Pine Forest, Red Fir Forest, Lodgepole Forest, Subalpine Forest, Foothill Woodland, Chaparral, Valley Grassland, wetland-riparian. .
Large, narrow, tree with white-marked leaves and fragrant buds. Hardy to below 0F. Western North America.

Gardening facts about Populus trichocarpa plant

How to Grow Populus trichocarpa

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - shade
  • Water Needs

    • even moisture - regular
  • Soil Needs

    • average
    • well-drained

Features

  • Wildlife

    • birds
    • butterflies
  • Foliage Color

    • gold
    • green
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous
Mailing List
Sign Up for updates on new plant arrivals and deals

© 2010—2024 Plant Lust, LLC All Rights Reserved