Populus balsamifera ssp. trichocarpa, Black Cottonwood

Black Cottonwood

A fast growing tree that can reach over 100 feet tall and 30 feet wide.  These trees can grow very quickly, some might overgrow their root system and tip over.  You should stake young trees.  Do not plant under power lines.  Roots might invade water and sewer systems.  It is deciduous in winter.  This plant produces a pollen that can produce an allergic reaction.

It is best to prune in the winter.  If the tree is producing shoots it can be pruned back in June or July if you want to reduce the trees height and bulk.

Plant with: Yellow Monkeyflower (Mimulus guttatus), Yerba Mansa (Anemopsis californica), wild Rose (Rosa californica), and Hedge Nettle (Stachys bullata)

- Plant in full sun or part shade

- Best in clay, loam, sand, or rocky soil

- Water regularly, keep moist

- Hardy up to 5 degrees

- Attracts birds and butterflies

-Native to California