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Black poplar
Also known as: Italian poplar
Black poplar (Populus nigra) is a medium- to large-sized deciduous tree which can be naturally found in many alluvial European forests. It is a fast-growing tree, with a wide crown which is a common nesting place for different species of birds. Due to the degradation of its natural habitat, black poplar has become an endangered species in certain areas.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Early summer
Harvest Time
20 m to 40 m
Plant Height
3 m to 3.5 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
5 cm to 6 cm
Flower Size
Deciduous
Leaf type
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Black poplar

Distribution of Black poplar

Distribution Map
Black poplar is native to Europe, southwest and central Asia, and northwest Africa and favors temperate, dry grasslands. A cultivated variant has been introduced around the world as an ornamental landscaping tree, which has been listed as invasive or potentially invasive in some nations in the Americas, as well as South Africa.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Moist ground in woods and by streams
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Black poplar is quite rare, particularly when it comes to the garden. The tree is very susceptible to disease and weather damage, making it rather unappealing, difficult to care for, and a litterer, infamous for covering lawns with debris. The black poplar can be used as protection from the wind, however, and provides some shade. It also has some ornamental appeal when planted in rows, though it doesn't generally do well with other plants.
Symbolism
Courage, victory, transformation, vision
Interesting Facts
The seeds of black poplar produce a fluffy, cotton-like structure, which has been used as a filling for pillows or insulation material. Due to these characteristics, Populus nigra, so as other Populus species, are often referred to as 'cottonwood' in North America.
Name Story
Black poplar: Although this plant is widely distributed in Europe, it has already become an endangered species. Its most prominent feature is its black tree bark and it is covered with wrinkled ditches. It is because of this feature, it is called black poplar.
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Cultivars

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

Quickly Identify Black poplar

1
Tall tree up to 50 feet (15 meters) with rapid growth.
2
Distinct bark texture: deeply furrowed, peeling off in scales.
3
Triangular leaves, glossy with serrated edges, turning yellow in autumn.
4
Male and female flowers in catkins: green and red color difference.
5
Dark gray to black trunk with rough, flaky bark, reaching 3 feet (1 meter) in diameter.
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Care Guide for Black poplar

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Adapted to riverbank habitats, black poplar thrives in moisture-rich conditions while tolerating short droughts. Water every 1-2 weeks, avoiding waterlogging. Commonly grown outdoors, black poplar features a robust root system to efficiently use available water during its active growing season.
Fertilize: Fertilize black poplar with high nitrogen in spring and balanced nutrients in fall, every 3-4 months. Adjust quantity based on size, avoiding over-fertilization. Water black poplar before and after fertilizing to enhance nutrient uptake and prevent root burn.
Pruning: Black poplar is a fast-growing tree with heart-shaped leaves. Prune in early spring by removing dead, damaged branches and thinning crowded ones for better air circulation and light. Avoid over-pruning to prevent stress, as proper techniques enhance aesthetics and structural health.
Propagation: Black poplar propagates via hardwood cuttings, layering, and seeds in autumn and winter. Propagation is moderately difficult; success hinges on root development. Optimal outcomes are achieved with cuttings taken during active growth, treated with rooting hormone, and planted in well-draining medium.
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