About
Populus nigra, the black poplar, is a large, deciduous tree with a rounded habit and gnarled, furrowed bark to 20 m tall, with glossy, diamond-shaped, green foliage. An endangered species in the UK � tolerant of exposed sites and waterlogged soils, making it an excellent choice for shelterbelts, woodlands and parks. Male trees have red catkins; females have yellow-green catkins in early spring, followed by copious fluffy seeds.
About the genus
Populus, the poplars and aspens, are mostly very fast-growing, large, deciduous trees producing male and female catkins on separate trees before the leaves open in spring. Male catkins are the more ornamental; female trees can be a nuisance from cottony, wind-blown seeds. Excellent trees for large landscapes.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Coastal
Native toEurope, SW Asia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poorly drained, or moist but well-drained soil. Its size, vigour and ability to spread by suckers give it the potential to become a nuisance in a garden situation if not managed well
PruningPruning group 1; sucker removal in autumn or winter
PropagationPropagate from hardwood cuttings in winter or suckers in autumn or late winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf beetles, sawflies and caterpillars
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf spots, poplar bacterial canker, tree rusts and honey fungus