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Description
Populus Nigra, or the Black Poplar, is a large, deciduous tree that can reach heights of up to 120 feet. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been widely planted around the world for ornamental and commercial purposes. The tree is known for its distinctive, diamond-shaped leaves and its tall, straight trunk. The bark is dark brown to blackish, deeply furrowed, and rough to the touch. The Black Poplar is dioecious, meaning that there are male and female trees, and the female trees produce cotton-like fluff in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Black Poplar has a distinctive appearance, with diamond-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and light green underneath. The leaves are about 4-6 inches long and have serrated edges. The tree is deciduous, meaning that it loses its leaves in the fall. The bark is dark brown to blackish, deeply furrowed, and rough to the touch. The trunk is tall and straight, with a diameter of up to 5 feet. The Black Poplar produces cotton-like fluff in the spring, which comes from the female trees.
Care Guide
The Black Poplar is a relatively low-maintenance tree, but it does require some care to thrive. It prefers moist soil and plenty of sunlight, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Black Poplar:
- Water: The tree should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can help it grow faster.
- Soil: The tree prefers moist, well-drained soil, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Black Poplar is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Black Poplar is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect the Black Poplar:
- Canker: A fungal disease that causes the bark to crack and peel.
- Leaf spot: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves.
- Aphids: Small insects that can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
- Cottonwood borers: A type of beetle that can damage the bark and wood of the tree.
Habitat
The Black Poplar is native to Europe and Western Asia, but it has been widely planted around the world for ornamental and commercial purposes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sunlight, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions. The Black Poplar is often found in wetlands, along rivers and streams, and in other areas with plenty of water.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the difference between a male and female Black Poplar?
A: The Black Poplar is dioecious, meaning that there are male and female trees. The female trees produce cotton-like fluff in the spring, while the male trees do not.
Q: How tall can a Black Poplar grow?
A: The Black Poplar can grow up to 120 feet tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Black Poplar?
A: The Black Poplar is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Q: What is the scientific name for the Black Poplar?
A: The scientific name for the Black Poplar is Populus Nigra.
Related Plants
- Populus Alba (White Poplar)
- Populus Tremula (European Aspen)
- Populus Grandidentata (Bigtooth Aspen)
- Populus Deltoides (Eastern Cottonwood)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Populus Nigra
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Populus Nigra
- Royal Horticultural Society: Populus Nigra
