Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deltoides
Also known as Cottonwood, Plains Cottonwood, Common Cottonwood
Climate Match for your location
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A fast-growing native deciduous tree with a pyramidal shape, heart-shaped leaves, and cottony seeds that disperse in spring. Best suited for riparian zones and areas with consistent moisture and full sun.
Why grow it
Eastern cottonwood grows faster than most native riparian trees, making it useful for rapid establishment of woody cover in wet sites. Compared to slower-growing alternatives like oaks or hickories, it establishes a canopy quickly and provides early wildlife habitat. The tree is well-adapted to floodplain conditions and tolerates seasonal inundation better than upland species.
Watch out for
The rapid growth habit produces relatively soft, brittle wood that can break under snow or ice load, particularly in multi-stem forms. Roots are aggressive and can damage drainage systems or foundations if planted near structures; provide ample clearance from hardscape. Female trees produce the characteristic cottony seed fluff that some gardeners find objectionable, though seed production is typically manageable in most climates.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Central and Eastern North America
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A fast-growing native deciduous tree with a pyramidal shape, heart-shaped leaves, and cottony seeds that disperse in spring. Best suited for riparian zones and areas with consistent moisture and full sun.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Eastern Cottonwood grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Eastern cottonwood grows faster than most native riparian trees, making it useful for rapid establishment of woody cover in wet sites. Compared to slower-growing alternatives like oaks or hickories, it establishes a canopy quickly and provides early wildlife habitat. The tree is well-adapted to floodplain conditions and tolerates seasonal inundation better than upland species.
Watch out for
The rapid growth habit produces relatively soft, brittle wood that can break under snow or ice load, particularly in multi-stem forms. Roots are aggressive and can damage drainage systems or foundations if planted near structures; provide ample clearance from hardscape. Female trees produce the characteristic cottony seed fluff that some gardeners find objectionable, though seed production is typically manageable in most climates.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Central and Eastern North America
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar canopy trees you might consider:
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