Black Cottonwood
Populus trichocarpa
Also listed as Populus longifolia, Populus tristis
Also known as Western Balsam Poplar, Balsam Poplar
Climate Match for your location
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A large, fast-growing deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest with a pyramidal form, known for its rapid growth and preference for riparian areas. The catkins appear in spring before the leaves emerge.
Why grow it
Black cottonwood grows faster than most native hardwoods in the Pacific Northwest, making it useful for rapid biomass production, riparian restoration, and erosion control. Compared to other poplars, it tolerates cooler, wetter conditions typical of the region's valleys and stream corridors. Its large leaves cast dense shade, supporting understory development in young riparian plantings.
Watch out for
This tree produces substantial litter (catkins, leaves, and branches) that can clog gutters and accumulate heavily in small spaces. Its aggressive root system can interfere with drainage systems and nearby structures if planted in confined areas, and branch breakage occurs readily in storms or with heavy snow loads.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest North America
Native to: Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A large, fast-growing deciduous tree native to the Pacific Northwest with a pyramidal form, known for its rapid growth and preference for riparian areas. The catkins appear in spring before the leaves emerge.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Black Cottonwood grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Black cottonwood grows faster than most native hardwoods in the Pacific Northwest, making it useful for rapid biomass production, riparian restoration, and erosion control. Compared to other poplars, it tolerates cooler, wetter conditions typical of the region's valleys and stream corridors. Its large leaves cast dense shade, supporting understory development in young riparian plantings.
Watch out for
This tree produces substantial litter (catkins, leaves, and branches) that can clog gutters and accumulate heavily in small spaces. Its aggressive root system can interfere with drainage systems and nearby structures if planted in confined areas, and branch breakage occurs readily in storms or with heavy snow loads.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Pacific Northwest North America
Native to: Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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