Contents
Description
Populus Yunnanensis, commonly known as the Yunnan poplar, is a deciduous tree species native to China. It belongs to the family of Salicaceae and is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of up to 20 meters. This tree has a straight trunk and a broad, open crown with branches that grow horizontally. The bark of the Yunnan poplar is smooth and gray, with prominent lenticels. The leaves are triangular, with pointed tips and serrated edges. The male trees produce catkins that are up to 10 cm long, while the female trees produce yellowish-green flowers that are arranged in clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Salicaceae |
| Genus | Populus |
Appearance
The Yunnan poplar has a distinctive appearance, with its broad, open crown and horizontal branches. The leaves are bright green in color during the summer and turn yellow in the fall. The male trees produce catkins that are reddish-brown in color, while the female trees produce yellowish-green flowers that are arranged in clusters. The bark is smooth and gray, with prominent lenticels. This tree species can reach a height of up to 20 meters and has a lifespan of approximately 50 years.
Care Guide
The Yunnan poplar requires regular care to ensure its healthy growth. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:
- Water: Water the tree regularly during the growing season, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
- Soil: The Yunnan poplar prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: This tree species requires full sun to grow properly.
- Hardiness Zones: The Yunnan poplar is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yunnan poplar is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Canker: A fungal disease that causes sunken areas on the bark and can lead to branch dieback.
- Aphids: Small insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl.
- Cottony Scale: A type of scale insect that produces a white, cotton-like substance on the branches and leaves.
- Leaf Spot: A fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves.
Habitat
The Yunnan poplar is native to China and is commonly found growing in the Yunnan province. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun. This tree species is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens due to its attractive appearance and fast growth rate.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yunnan poplar be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the Yunnan poplar in containers, it is not recommended as the tree can grow quite large and requires a lot of space to grow properly.
Q: Can the Yunnan poplar be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Yunnan poplar can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in the winter.
Q: Is the Yunnan poplar a good shade tree?
A: Yes, the Yunnan poplar is a good shade tree due to its broad, open crown and fast growth rate.
Q: Does the Yunnan poplar produce fruit?
A: No, the Yunnan poplar does not produce fruit. The male trees produce catkins, while the female trees produce flowers.
Related Plants
- Populus alba (White Poplar)
- Populus balsamifera (Balsam Poplar)
- Populus deltoides (Eastern Cottonwood)
- Populus grandidentata (Bigtooth Aspen)
- Populus tremuloides (Quaking Aspen)
References
- “Populus yunnanensis.” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=200005004.
- “Populus yunnanensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c478.
- “Populus yunnanensis.” The Tree Center, www.thetreecenter.com/populus-yunnanensis/.
