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Description
Populus Deltoides, commonly known as the Eastern cottonwood, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in most parts of the United States and Canada. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and has a wide, open crown with a spread of up to 75 feet. Populus Deltoides is known for its rapid growth and can reach maturity in as little as 10 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The leaves of Populus Deltoides are triangular in shape and have a glossy, dark green color. They can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown in color and becomes deeply furrowed as the tree matures. The tree produces male and female flowers on separate trees. The male flowers are long and cylindrical, while the female flowers are round and green. The tree produces a cotton-like substance that helps in seed dispersal.
Care Guide
Populus Deltoides requires moist soil and plenty of sunlight to thrive. It is a hardy tree that can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, clay, and sand. The tree should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth to establish a strong root system. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth. Populus Deltoides is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Populus Deltoides is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. The most common pests are aphids, caterpillars, and borers. The tree can also be affected by leaf rust and canker. Proper care, including regular watering and fertilization, can help prevent these problems.
Habitat
Populus Deltoides is native to North America and can be found in most parts of the United States and Canada. It grows in a variety of habitats, including floodplains, riverbanks, and wetlands. The tree is often used for erosion control and as a shade tree in urban areas.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growth rate of Populus Deltoides?
A: Populus Deltoides is known for its rapid growth and can grow up to 6 feet per year in the right conditions.
Q: Can Populus Deltoides grow in sandy soil?
A: Yes, Populus Deltoides can grow in sandy soil, but it prefers moist soil.
Q: What is the lifespan of Populus Deltoides?
A: Populus Deltoides can live up to 100 years.
Q: Can Populus Deltoides be grown in a container?
A: It is not recommended to grow Populus Deltoides in a container as it requires a lot of space to grow and develop a strong root system.
Related Plants
- Populus Alba (White Poplar)
- Populus Grandidentata (Bigtooth Aspen)
- Populus Tremuloides (Quaking Aspen)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Harrington, T. B. (1985). Eastern cottonwood. In Silvics of North America: Volume 2. Hardwoods (pp. 400-406). USDA Forest Service.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh. Retrieved June 29, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PODE2
