Lanceleaf Cottonwood

(Populus ×acuminata)

Lanceleaf Cottonwood (Populus ×acuminata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Populus ×acuminata, commonly known as Lanceleaf Cottonwood, is a deciduous tree resulting from the cross between Populus angustifolia (narrowleaf cottonwood) and Populus deltoides (eastern cottonwood). It is native to riparian zones, streambanks, and wetlands in the Rocky Mountains of North America, thriving at elevations between 4,500 and 8,500 feet. The tree can grow to a height of 40 to 60 feet (12 to 18 meters) with a canopy spread of 30 to 40 feet (9 to 12 meters). Lanceleaf Cottonwood has a narrow to broadly pyramidal shape with a straight trunk. Its leaves are lance-shaped with finely serrated margins, turning yellow in the fall. The tree is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate trees; the flowers are not particularly showy, but the cottony seeds produced by female trees are noticeable.

Lanceleaf Cottonwood is valued for its rapid growth and ability to provide quick shade. It is often used in urban settings, despite some restrictions due to its aggressive root system and propensity to produce suckers, which can interfere with urban infrastructure. It requires full sun to partial shade, consistent moisture, and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained, loamy soils. There are no widely recognized cultivars of this hybrid. Potential problems include susceptibility to diseases such as cankers and pests like aphids. It is also known to be somewhat drought-tolerant once established.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-50 feet
  • Width: 30-40 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to riparian zones, streambanks, and wetlands in the Rocky Mountains

Other Names

Common Names: Rio Grande Cottonwood

Scientific Names: , Populus ×acuminata, Populus acuminata var. rehderi,

GBIF Accepted Name: