Frémont Cottonwood
Populus fremontii
Also known as Frémont's Cottonwood, Fremont Cottonwood, Alamo Cottonwood
Climate Match for your location
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A fast-growing, large deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States, valued for its broad spreading canopy and tolerance of arid riparian environments. It produces fluffy white catkins in spring and requires consistent moisture to thrive.
Why grow it
Fremont cottonwood is notably more drought-tolerant than most other Populus species once established, making it a reasonable choice for water-limited riparian restoration in the Southwest. It grows faster than native oaks or ashes in its range, providing quicker canopy cover and wildlife habitat. Compared to introduced shade trees, it requires less supplemental irrigation in arid climates where its native range overlaps with land use.
Watch out for
The tree produces substantial leaf litter and relies on consistent groundwater or supplemental irrigation during dry periods; planting in truly dry upland sites typically results in poor establishment. Surface roots can interfere with nearby structures and hardscaping, so allow adequate space away from buildings and pavement. Cottonwoods tend toward weak branch angles and shed dead wood regularly, making them unsuitable for yards where overhead hazard management is impractical.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, Utah
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, large deciduous tree native to the southwestern United States, valued for its broad spreading canopy and tolerance of arid riparian environments. It produces fluffy white catkins in spring and requires consistent moisture to thrive.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Frémont Cottonwood grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Fremont cottonwood is notably more drought-tolerant than most other Populus species once established, making it a reasonable choice for water-limited riparian restoration in the Southwest. It grows faster than native oaks or ashes in its range, providing quicker canopy cover and wildlife habitat. Compared to introduced shade trees, it requires less supplemental irrigation in arid climates where its native range overlaps with land use.
Watch out for
The tree produces substantial leaf litter and relies on consistent groundwater or supplemental irrigation during dry periods; planting in truly dry upland sites typically results in poor establishment. Surface roots can interfere with nearby structures and hardscaping, so allow adequate space away from buildings and pavement. Cottonwoods tend toward weak branch angles and shed dead wood regularly, making them unsuitable for yards where overhead hazard management is impractical.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Salicaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southwestern United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Texas, Utah
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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