Poplar, HybridPopulus deltoides x Populus nigra
A very fast-growing tree, up to 5 to 8 feet per year. Has silvery-green leaves and broad shade-tree shape. Usually planted for very fast shade, or can be harvested for firewood in 5 to 7 years. This is a cottonless hybrid. Plant back from sidewalks. Grows to 40' to 50', 30' spread. (zones 3-9)
Zones 3 - 9
The Hybrid Poplar can be expected to grow in the zones shown in color in the arborday.org zone map. (see map below)
Shade Tree
The Hybrid Poplar falls into the following type(s): Shade Trees
40' - 50' High
The Hybrid Poplar grows to be 40' - 50' feet in height.
30' Spread
The Hybrid Poplar has a spread of about 30' at full maturity.
Fast Growth
This tree grows at a fast growth rate. [More about this.]
Full Sun
This poplar does well in full sun.
Various Soils
The Hybrid Poplar grows in acidic, alkaline, wet soils.
Oval Shape
This poplar has oval shape.
More Info
The Hybrid Poplar can be expected to grow in the zones shown on this map.
Attributes:
Hybrid Poplars are the thoroughbreds of the tree world. Their claim to fame is speed. Growth of 5 to 8 feet per year is not uncommon, which makes this tree a good choice for quick shade on a vacant lot or for suburban firewood groves.
Description:
A very fast-growing tree, up to 5 to 8 feet per year. Has silvery-green leaves and broad shade-tree shape. Usually planted for very fast shade, or can be harvested for firewood in 5 to 7 years. This is a cottonless hybrid. Plant back from sidewalks. Grows to 40' to 50', 30' spread. (zones 3-9)
Wildlife Value:
Hybrid Poplar bark, twigs, and leaves eaten by rodents, rabbits, deer, beaver, and porcupines. It provides forage for browsing wildlife such as whitetail and mule deer up through the sapling stage. It also provides important nesting and roosting habitat for various species of birds.
History/Lore/Use:
There are many crosses that go by the name Hybrid Poplar, but this one between Eastern Cottonwood from the United States and Black Poplar from Europe and North Africa has been a favorite for a very long time. Botanists and Hobbyists in colonial times are said to have exchanged the parent trees across the ocean, with both natural and artificial hybrids soon resulting. The oldest account of the tree was given by a scientist in 1785.
Moisture:
Wet soil preferred.
Leaves:
The leaves are triangular, 3-6 inches long and 4-5 inches wide, with "teeth" all around the margin. Often silver-green in color, but this is quite variable. Stalks are frequently reddish.