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Description
Populus Fremontii, commonly known as the Western Cottonwood, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Salicaceae family. It is native to western North America and found in areas with water sources such as rivers, streams, and wetlands. The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall with a trunk diameter of 5 feet. It has a broad and open crown with a thick trunk and deeply furrowed bark. Its leaves are triangular to diamond-shaped and have a glossy dark green color on the top and pale green beneath. The tree produces cotton-like seeds that disperse through the air during late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Western Cottonwood tree has a unique appearance that makes it easily identifiable. Its broad and open crown provides ample shade during hot summer days. The trunk has deeply furrowed bark that appears gray to brown in color. The leaves of the tree are triangular to diamond-shaped and have a glossy dark green color on top and pale green beneath. The leaves are 3-5 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The tree produces cotton-like seeds that disperse through the air during late spring and early summer.
Care Guide
The Western Cottonwood tree requires proper care to thrive and grow healthy. Here is a guide on how to take care of this beautiful tree:
- Water: The tree requires regular watering during the growing season. Ensure the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring using a balanced fertilizer to encourage growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should range between 6.0 to 8.0.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun to grow and develop properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The Western Cottonwood tree grows best in hardiness zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Western Cottonwood tree is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and health. Some of the common pests and diseases that affect this tree include:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the leaves of the tree, causing yellowing and deformation.
- Cottonwood Borer: This is a longhorn beetle that feeds on the bark of the tree, causing holes and weakening the tree.
- Cankers: These are fungal infections that cause sunken areas on the bark of the tree, leading to decay.
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and browning of the leaves of the tree.
Habitat
The Western Cottonwood tree is native to western North America and found in areas with water sources such as rivers, streams, and wetlands. It is a fast-growing tree that thrives in full sun and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. The tree is commonly found in riparian areas and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How tall can the Western Cottonwood tree grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 100 feet tall with a trunk diameter of 5 feet.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Western Cottonwood tree?
A: The tree grows best in hardiness zones 7-9.
Q: What is the appearance of the Western Cottonwood tree?
A: The tree has a broad and open crown with deeply furrowed bark, triangular to diamond-shaped leaves, and cotton-like seeds that disperse through the air during late spring and early summer.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect the Western Cottonwood tree?
A: The tree is susceptible to pests such as aphids and cottonwood borer, and diseases such as cankers and leaf spot.
Related Plants
- Populus Alba (White Poplar)
- Populus Tremuloides (Quaking Aspen)
- Populus Nigra (Black Poplar)
- Populus Trichocarpa (Black Cottonwood)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Populus Fremontii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=POFR
- Harrington, H. (2017). Trees of the Western United States. Princeton University Press.
- Bowling, D. R., & Bethers-Marchetti, S. (2003). Western Cottonwood (Populus Fremontii) In: Fire Effects Information System. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory.
