Balsam Poplar
Deciduous tree growing 20-30 m tall with a narrow crown. Features triangular to ovate leaves with serrated edges and fragrant, resinous buds. Prefers moist soils and full sun. Tolerates poor soils and cold temperatures. Fast-growing but short-lived. Provides food and habitat for wildlife. Suitable for windbreaks, erosion control, and reclamation of disturbed sites. Native to northern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Red (catkins)
Bloom Time: Early Spring
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Buds extremely resinous through winter. Male and female catkins appear April before leaves. Leaves emerge mid-May. Cotton-like seeds release June. Yellow fall color develops early October.
Wildlife Value: Buds eaten by grouse and other birds; wood used by beavers; hosts many moth species; early season pollen source
Habit Over Time: Grows rapidly into a large tree with a broad, irregular crown. Can spread aggressively through root suckers, especially when roots are disturbed. The canopy allows filtered light to reach the ground, but the extensive root system can be competitive with other plants. Best used where its spreading nature can be contained.
Height: Tall (60-80 feet)