balsam poplar - Salicaceae Populus balsamifera

Taxonomy

Cladeangiosperm
FamilySalicaceae
GenusPopulus
Speciesbalsamifera
Common Namebalsam poplar
iTree CodePOBA2

Plant Form

FormTree: conical crown
Height80 feet
Spread30 feet
DeciduousYes

Identification Description

Foliageleaves are ovate and finely serrate. Dark green above and white beneath. 3-6" long Leaf Type  Information Icon Simple
Barkdark and furrowed when older, the younger bark exhibits lenticels and is a gray-green.
Budlarge, sharply pointed with overlapping scales (imbricate); releasing a red, fragrant resin when crushed Bud Arrangement Information Icon Alternate
Twigred/gray to brown/orange
Flowercatkins, quit long and greenish yellow; both male and female on separate trees (dioecious)
Fruitcapsule is 2 valved
Fall Coloryellow

Site Characteristics

USDA Zones   info for zones pH LevelsSalt Tolerance
Min2a Min5.0 SoilModerate
Max5b Max8.0 SprayHigh

Shade ToleranceDrought ToleranceAllelopathy
Intermediate Moderate Yes

Species Status

Nebraska Native Yes Check
U.S. Native Yes Check
Region of OriginUnited States, Canada
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