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Description
Populus Balsamifera, commonly known as Balsam Poplar, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. This tree is native to North America and is commonly found in wet and moist areas, such as riverbanks, floodplains, and swamps. It is known for its strong aroma, which is produced by its buds and leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Balsam Poplar can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 90 cm. Its bark is grayish-brown and is smooth when the tree is young, but becomes furrowed with age. Its leaves are triangular in shape and have a shiny green surface. The tree produces catkins that are 5-10 cm long and bloom in late spring or early summer. The tree’s wood is soft and lightweight, making it an ideal material for making pulp, paper, and matches.
Care Guide
The Balsam Poplar is relatively easy to care for and maintain. Here are some tips:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the tree once a year to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sand, loam, and clay.
- Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Balsam Poplar can grow in USDA hardiness zones 1-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Balsam Poplar is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Cottonwood Borer: This beetle can cause damage to the tree’s trunk and branches.
- Poplar Leaf Rust: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the tree’s leaves.
- Cytospora Canker: This fungal disease can cause branches to die and cause cankers on the tree’s bark.
Habitat
The Balsam Poplar is commonly found in wet and moist areas, such as riverbanks, floodplains, and swamps. It is native to North America and can be found in Canada and the United States. The tree is also commonly used for landscaping purposes in urban areas due to its fast growth rate.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Balsam Poplar an invasive species?
A: No, the Balsam Poplar is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can the Balsam Poplar tolerate drought?
A: No, the Balsam Poplar requires regular watering and does not tolerate drought well.
Q: Can the Balsam Poplar grow in containers?
A: No, the Balsam Poplar is not suitable for container growing.
Q: How fast does the Balsam Poplar grow?
A: The Balsam Poplar has a fast growth rate and can grow up to 1-2 meters per year.
Related Plants
- Populus Tremuloides (Quaking Aspen)
- Populus Grandidentata (Bigtooth Aspen)
- Populus Nigra (Black Poplar)
- Populus Alba (White Poplar)
References
- “Populus balsamifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed on August 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282449&isprofile=0&
- “Balsam Poplar.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed on August 21, 2021. https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=892
- “Populus balsamifera.” The PLANTS Database. Accessed on August 21, 2021. https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=POBA2
