Taxonomy
Clade | angiosperm |
Family | Salicaceae |
Genus | Populus |
Species | balsamifera |
Common Name | balsam poplar |
iTree Code | POBA2 |
Plant Form
Form | Tree: conical crown |
Height | 80 feet |
Spread | 30 feet |
Deciduous | Yes |
Identification Description
Foliage | leaves are ovate and finely serrate. Dark green above and white beneath. 3-6" long |
Leaf Type
|
Simple |
Bark | dark and furrowed when older, the younger bark exhibits lenticels and is a gray-green. |
Bud | large, sharply pointed with overlapping scales (imbricate); releasing a red, fragrant resin when crushed |
Bud Arrangement
|
Alternate |
Twig | red/gray to brown/orange |
Flower | catkins, quit long and greenish yellow; both male and female on separate trees (dioecious) |
Fruit | capsule is 2 valved |
Fall Color | yellow |
Site Characteristics
USDA Zones
|
pH Levels | Salt Tolerance |
Min | 2a |
Min | 5.0 |
Soil | Moderate |
Max | 5b |
Max | 8.0 |
Spray | High |
Shade Tolerance | Drought Tolerance | Allelopathy |
Intermediate |
Moderate |
Yes |
Species Status
Nebraska Native |
|
U.S. Native |
|
Region of Origin | United States, Canada |
More Information | Visit External Site |