photo of Populus deltoides

Populus deltoides

Eastern Cottonwood

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Eastern Cottonwood is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree. It is dioecious; catkins bloom on separate male or female trees in March-April before...

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Description:

Eastern Cottonwood is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree. It is dioecious; catkins bloom on separate male or female trees in March-April before leaves emerge. The female trees have fruit capsules packed with numerous, tufted seeds with silky white hairs, giving the appearance of cotton. Seeds provide a valued food source for birds. The “cotton” provides birds with nesting material. Eastern Cottonwood can be a messy tree, as it drops leaves, flowers, fruits, twigs, and branches. Although it is not typically used as an ornamental tree, you can plant it in rural areas along streams, where it may be difficult to grow other trees.

Plant Details:

Plant Type: Tree

New Jersey Native: Yes

Bloom Times: Spring

Bloom Colors: Red

Deer Resistance: High

Attracts Pollinators and Wildlife: Birds

Salt Tolerance: Medium

Hardiness Zone: 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b

Physiographic Region: All Regions in NJ

Soil Characteristics

Soil Type: Loam, Organic, Sandy, Clay

Soil Moisture: Moist, Wet

Soil pH: Acidic, Slightly Acidic

Light Needs of Plant

Optimal Light: Full Sun

Light Range: Full Sun

Water Needs of Plant

Soil Moisture: Moist, Wet

Drought Tolerance: Medium

Size and Growth Rate

Height: 75 - 100 ft

Spread: 50 - 75 ft

Growth Rate: Fast