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Description
Populus Nigra Italica, also known as Italian Poplar, is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach a height of 30-40 meters. This tree is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and timber production. It has a narrow, pyramidal shape when young, which becomes more rounded with age. The bark is dark gray and deeply fissured, while the leaves are triangular in shape and have a glossy green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Italian Poplar has a narrow, pyramidal shape when young, which becomes more rounded with age. The bark is dark gray and deeply fissured, while the leaves are triangular in shape and have a glossy green color. The leaves can be up to 10 centimeters long and 8 centimeters wide. The male and female flowers are borne on separate trees and are greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small, cottony seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Italian Poplar requires plenty of water, especially during the first few years of growth. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.Soil: The Italian Poplar prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does best in fertile, loamy soil.Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: The Italian Poplar is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Italian Poplar is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, borers, cankers, leaf spot, and rust. Regular inspection and treatment can help prevent these problems from affecting the tree.
Habitat
The Italian Poplar is native to the Mediterranean region, but has been widely cultivated throughout the world. It is commonly found in parks, gardens, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Italian Poplar grow?
A: The Italian Poplar is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 1-2 meters per year.Q: Is the Italian Poplar suitable for planting in small gardens?
A: The Italian Poplar is a large tree that may not be suitable for small gardens.Q: Does the Italian Poplar require pruning?
A: The Italian Poplar does not require regular pruning, but can benefit from occasional shaping to maintain its form.Q: Can the Italian Poplar tolerate drought?
A: The Italian Poplar prefers moist soil and may not tolerate prolonged periods of drought.
Related Plants
– Populus Alba- Populus Tremula- Populus Grandidentata- Populus Deltoides
References
– “Populus Nigra Italica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a566.- “Populus Nigra Italica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 15, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/20679/populus-nigra-italica/details.
