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Wasowski, Sally and Andy (Valdez, NM)
Populus angustifolia James
Narrow-leaf cottonwood, Narrowleaf cottonwood
USDA Symbol: POAN3
USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.
Narrow-leaf cottonwood is a small, deciduous tree, growing 45-60 ft., with a rather narrow crown and slender twigs. Bark is less deeply furrowed than the broad-leaved cottonwoods. Toothed, yellow-green leaves are narrow and willow-like. Tree with narrow, conical crown of slender, upright branches and with resinous, balsam-scented buds.
Discovered in 1805 by Lewis and Clark on their expedition to the Northwest, this is the common cottonwood of the northern Rocky Mountains. It is easily distinguishable from related species by the narrow, short-stalked, willowlike leaves. Its root system makes it suitable for erosion control.
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Tree Size Class: 36-72 ft.
Leaf Color: Green
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White
Bloom Time: Mar , Apr , May
Distribution
USA: AZ , CA , CO , ID , MT , NE , NV , NM , OR , SD , TX , UT , WY
Canada: AB ,
SK Native Distribution: Alt. to s.e. OR, s. to Trans-Pecos, TX, AZ & n. Mex.
Native Habitat: Stream banks; foothills; high plains
USDA Native Status: L48(N), CAN(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: High
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Wet
CaCO3 Tolerance: High
Soil Description: Moist to mesic soils.
Conditions Comments: Female trees produce clouds of cottony seeds each spring that can be a temporary nuisance. To avoid the problem, plant only male trees.
Benefit
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Metadata
Record Modified: 2008-04-01
Research By: TWC Staff
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