Black Poplar

(Populus nigra)

Black Poplar (Populus nigra)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Populus nigra, commonly known as Black Poplar, is a deciduous tree native to riparian zones, floodplains, and wetlands from Europe and northern Africa to central Asia. It typically grows to a height of 20–30 meters, and on rare occasions, up to 40 meters, with trunks reaching up to 1.5 meters in diameter. The Black Poplar is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants, presenting as catkins that rely on wind for pollination. Its leaves are diamond-shaped and turn yellow in the fall, providing seasonal interest. The bark is deeply fissured and adds a rugged texture to the landscape.

This species thrives in full sun and requires high amounts of water, making it suitable for planting in areas with moist soils, including those with slow, medium, or fast drainage. Black Poplar is often used for biomass production and erosion control due to its rapid growth and ability to quickly colonize open areas. It also serves as an important habitat for wildlife. However, it can be potentially invasive outside its native range, including in the United States, and may pose problems with aggressive root systems that can damage pavements and underground utilities. Gardeners should check local regulations before planting and consider containment measures if necessary.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Trees
  • Height: 60-100 feet
  • Width: 30-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fire Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Riparian zones, floodplains, and wetlands in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Lombardy Poplar, Black Cottonwood, Schwarz-Pappel, Schwarzpappel, Peuplier Noir, Zwarte Populier, Svartpoppel, Osokor, Topol’ ČErnyj, Hei Yang, 양버들

Scientific Names: , Populus nigra, Populus canadensis, Populus nigra var. italica, Populus nigra subsp. betulifolia, Populus nigra subsp. neapolitana, Populus nigra var. betulifolia, Populus pyramidalis, Populus nigra var. elegans, Populus nigra subsp. caudina

GBIF Accepted Name: Populus nigra L.