Species black poplar

black poplar

Populus nigra

The black poplar (Populus nigra), also known as the Lombardy poplar, is a species of deciduous tree in the willow family. Native to Europe, it has large, triangular, toothed leaves and tall, straight trunks which can grow up to 30m high. Its bark is dark gray and it produces attractive, velvety, gray-brown catkins in spring. It prefers sunny, moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a variety of urban environments. Its wood is especially suited for carving and has been used extensively for its strength and lightness. Its showy foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for other plants.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

2 - 10

Flowers:

Green (female) Red (male) Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,black

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Black poplar (Populus nigra) should be watered deeply twice a month during its active growing season (spring through fall). When watering, provide enough water so that the soil is saturated and moist but not soggy. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During the plant's inactive winter season, water it only once a month or as needed to keep the soil just slightly moist.

sunlight

Black poplar trees prefer full sun, meaning they should receive 6 or more hours of direct sunlight each day. During the summer months, black poplar trees should have full sun exposure from sunrise to mid-afternoon, when the sun is at its highest. This species of tree also tolerates partial shade, meaning it can still grow and thrive with less than 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

pruning

Black poplars (Populus nigra) should be carefully pruned twice a year, once in the winter and once in early summer. Winter pruning should focus on removing dead, dying or diseased branches, as well as those that cross or rub together. Early summer pruning should focus on thinning out the canopy of the tree to encourage better air circulation and more light penetration. When thinning out the canopy, aim to remove about 1/3 of the branches, making sure to retain the tree's natural shape. For pruning black poplars, make sure to use sharp, clean pruning tools and to use proper technique to avoid damaging the branches.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Black poplar typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map