Eastern cottonwood - populus deltoides
Common Name: eastern cottonwood
Scientific Name: Family: Salicaceae Genus: Populus Species: deltoides Hardiness Zone: 2 to 9 Height: 80 to 100 ft Width: 35 to 60 ft Description: The eastern cottonwood can be seen throughout the Minnesota landscape, in the urban environment as well as the natural areas. This widely planted tree has the potential to reach great heights. The tree is short lived, very fast growing and can take over an open area if left to its own. This said, it has very weak wood; the branches will come down in storms easily. They are very messy; the females produce a cotton and flowers that will be everywhere in the spring. To avoid problems with messes, try planting male cottonwood trees. They do not produce the seeds that disperse cotton around the tree, and are known as "cottonless cottonwoods". That said, these trees will tolerate almost any situation. They are adaptable to most salt and drought situations. This tree is not recommended to be planted near homes or anywhere that there will be targets for branches during storms. |