Populus deltoides

Scientific Name: Populus deltoides

Common Name: cottonwood

Native Range: Eastern and central United States

Zone: 2 to 9

Plant type & Form: Deciduous tree with a broad, open-rounded form

Height: 50.00 to 80.00 feet

Spread: 35.00 to 60.00 feet

Bloom Time: March – April

Bloom Description: Red (male) green (female)

Flower: Insignificant, tiny male and female flowers in separate catkins, dioecious

Fruit: Female flowers turn to dehiscent capsules (pods) that split when ripe and spread densely-tufted seeds that resemble cotton

Leaf: Triangular, coarsely-toothed, glossy dark-green leaves (up to 5″)

Sun: Full sun

Water: Medium to wet

Soil type & pH: Prefers consistently moist soils

Maintenance: Medium

Suggested Use: Shade tree, rain garden

Tolerates: Drought, air pollution

Notes: This plant typically grows in lowland areas, swamps, and along streams and rivers. This tree is not ideal for urban locations because it is messy, has weak wood, and the roots can damage sidewalks and sewer lines.

Identification notes: Look for yellow-ish twigs, coarsely toothed tringular shaped leaves, and gummy end buds. The bark has a dark gray color with pronounced ridges. The leaves make a lot of rustling noises in the wind.