Black poplar (Not recommended) | The Morton Arboretum

Black poplar is extremely susceptible to Cytospora canker (caused by the fungal pathogen Cytospora chrysosperma). This disease is often fatal, especially to the Lombardy poplar (Populus nigra ‘Italica’) which was commonly sold at one time. Black poplar is not recommended for planting anywhere in the Midwest. This species is native to Europe and Asia, but was introduced into American landscapes and was widely used for many decades, especially the upright cultivar ‘Italica’. It is no longer recommended because of its susceptibility to canker.

To find suitable replacements for this tree, go The Morton Arboretum’s tree and plant finder. Before purchasing or planting, be sure to check for any local or state guidelines on any selected species, and ensure that this plant is suitable for its habitat by checking its attributes at mortonarb.org or plants.usda.gov.

Family (English) Willow
Family (botanic) Salicaceae
Tree or plant type Tree
Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
Native locale Non-native
Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
Mature height 70-90 feet
Mature width 30-50 feet
Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily)
Hardiness zones Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9
Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil, Wet soil
Tolerances Alkaline soil, Clay soil, Dry sites, Occasional flooding, Wet sites
Season of interest early fall
Flower color and fragrance Inconspicuous
Shape or form Upright
Growth rate Fast
Transplants well Yes
Planting considerations Weak wood and branch structure
Wildlife Cavity-nesting birds, Game birds, Large mammals, Small mammals
Has cultivars Yes

Highly susceptible to the following disease and pests:

Cytospora canker caused by Cytospora chrysosperma.

Size:

Black poplar is a larger tree, growing 70 to 90 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide.

Native geographic location and habitat:

Black poplar is native to Europe and northern Africa.

Bark color and texture:

The gray bark is roughly ridged and furrowed.

Leaf or needle arrangement, size, shape, and texture:

The simple, alternate leaves are nearly triangular in outline. The leaves are 2 to 4 inches long and wide. Leaf color is medium green, changing to yellow in fall.

Flower arrangement, shape, and size:

Male and female flowers are on separate trees (dioecious). They are not ornamentally important.

Fruit, cone, nut, and seed descriptions:

Fruit occurs on female trees only and are small capsules in hanging clusters. The capsules open to release numerous seeds with fluff attached to them.