What is a poplar tree?
Poplar trees are fast-growing deciduous trees that belong to the genus Populus. Although excellent landscape trees in the right situation, poplars grow extremely tall and are suitable for growing only in exceptionally large gardens. Many types of poplar tree have attractive bark, often combined with a striking, architectural tree shape, attractive foliage and autumn colour. On some species the foliage is aromatic when in bud and young leaf.
Poplar trees are diocious, meaning the male and female catkins are borne on separate trees. Catkins vary in colour depending on whether the tree is male or female – those on male trees tend to be more colourful, while those on female trees mature to produce an abundance of fluffy white seeds. The downside of poplars is their extensive and fast-growing root system, making it highly inadvisable to plant anywhere near buildings. What’s more, seeds from female trees disperse widely and can cause a mess, and the fragile stems have a tendency to break and shed around the tree.
In total there are around 35 poplar species, which are native all over the Northern Hemisphere from Europe to China, as well as North America where some poplar species are known as cottonwoods. Some poplar trees are native to the UK and populations of mature black poplar trees were once important trees in the landscape. Many types of poplar tree are special not just for their age and landscape value, but also for a variety of practical uses. Being tough, hardy, and with rapid growth, they are ideal for using as large windbreaks and screens. In the wild most poplars grow in valleys, rivers, and swamps and in moist ground. A handful of species, including Populus alba, grow in drier conditions and
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