White poplar - Populus alba (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

White poplar

Also known as: Abele

White poplar (*Populus alba*) is a popular tree native to Morocco and Central Europe. White poplar is also called the silver poplar and the silverleaf poplar. White poplar grows in moist soils in areas with temperate climates. This tree is easy to carve and thus used for sculpture in China and Europe.

Scientific classification

Species

White poplar (Populus alba)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Spring

Harvest Time

15 m to 30 m

Plant Height

15 m to 24 m

Spread

Green, White, Yellow

Leaf Color

3 cm to 6 cm

Flower Size

White

Fruit Color

Green, Red

Flower Color

Green, White

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of White poplar

Distribution of White poplar

Distribution Map

Populus alba, known as white poplar, is widely distributed across various continents. Native to regions spanning from southwest Asia to Europe and northern Africa, white poplar thrives in its indigenous range. This species has also been introduced to parts of the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Oceania for cultivation purposes. In certain areas, white poplar is sometimes thought to be a challenge to local ecosystems, notably so in some regions of the southern hemisphere where it may have an impact. Despite this, white poplar generally coexists as a cultivated plant without major disruption to ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, watersides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

White poplar is used popularly as an ornamental tree in Europe and the United States. Its most striking feature is its silver-white bark, for which it is often planted in the front yard for a beautiful effect. Adding to the appeal is the rate of this tree's growth, making it a useful choice for landscaping around newly-built homes.

Symbolism

Money, Flying

Interesting Facts

White poplar is tolerant of salt and moisture. It also has an extensive root system, which makes it a popular choice for stabilizing sand dunes. White poplar also makes an attractive ornamental species. Its wood is sometimes used for carving sculptures.

Name Story

White poplar: This plant is easily recognizable. Its young trees come with a typical diamond-shaped black pattern on its tree bark. Its young branches are covered with gray-white fluff and the leaves have a thick white covering on both sides. Also, the back of the leaves is thicker and this makes it appear that all the leaves are white. So it is called the white poplar.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of White poplar, including the following common varieties :

White poplar 'Richardii'

Quickly Identify White poplar

Stark white bark with deep furrows and ridges, featuring distinctive white patches.

Leaves are glossy green with a silvery-white underside, lobed, and 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long.

Male flowers dangle in catkins, up to 2 inches (5 cm) long, lacking petals.

Fruit capsules split open, containing small seeds with cottony tufts for wind dispersal.

Trunk has thick, pale grey bark turning deeply furrowed with age, reaching 3 feet (90 cm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for White poplar

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: White poplar is suited for temperate climates, thriving with moderate moisture and tolerating brief droughts. It needs watering every 1-2 weeks and is typically grown outdoors. As a deciduous species, it sheds leaves based on water availability and seasonal changes.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, white poplar requires fertilization, particularly balanced fertilizers in spring and high-nitrogen during active growth. Apply quarterly, adjusting for size and age. Avoid over-fertilization and runoff. Nutrient needs lessen in fall. Incorporate fertilizer into soil around white poplar, avoiding contact with the trunk.

Pruning: White poplar boasts silvery foliage and rapid growth, benefiting from early spring pruning to remove dead or diseased branches, enhance air circulation, and prevent overcrowding. This practice promotes healthy growth, improves aesthetics, and reduces pest infestations, making it crucial for maintaining a vibrant white poplar.

Propagation: Propagation of white poplar is achievable via hardwood cuttings, layering, or seed sowing in autumn and winter. The process is moderately difficult, with new growth and root establishment indicating success. Use cuttings from mature plants and ensure sufficient moisture and light for optimal results.

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Images of White poplar

Distribution of White poplar

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify White poplar

Care Guide for White poplar

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Common Pests & Diseases