Balsam Poplar
Populus Balsamifera
Another species that is widespread across all of Canada as far north as zone 2. A highly adaptable tree with attractive, large, shiny, dark-green leaves and very fragrant, sticky buds. Grows naturally along the banks of rivers and lakes where extensive roots hold soil together. Often planted as a windbreak due its fast growth. Wood is brittle so plant away from areas where broken tree branches will cause problems. Male and female flowers appear on separate trees. Tiny, cottony seeds emerge from seed capsules on female trees in mid summer and are blown for miles on the breeze.
Additional information
| Foliage | Deciduous |
|---|---|
| Locale | Native to New Brunswick, Native to North America |
| Height | Large (60-100ft) |
| Width | Moderate |
| Form | Oval |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Longevity | Moderate (50 to 100 years) |
| Hardiness Zones * | 2, 3, 4, 5 |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs) |
| Soil Preferences * | Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining |
| Soil Tolerances | Clay, Dry, Slightly Alkaline, Wet |
| Other Tolerances | Occasional Flooding, Road Salt, Urban Pollution |
| Ornamental Interest | Leaves (shape) |
| Wildlife Value | Bees (flowers), Birds (fruits/seeds), Butterflies (flowers), Butterfly Larvae (leaves), Insect Pollinators (flowers), Large Mammals (leaves) |
| Human Value | Carpentry (wood) |
| Seed Collection | Grown from Cuttings |
| Planting Considerations | Intolerant of Full Shade, Plant away from Sewer Pipes, Produces Suckers, Prone to Ice Damage, Prone to Wind Damage, Shallow Roots |
