Overview
• Rare tree native to UK
• Large and imposing tree
• Fast growing
• Likes full sun
• Size after 10 years : 6m x 5m
Description
A wonderfully imposing, ornamental tree which, according to the Forestry Commission, has become the UK’s rarest native timber trees. Naturalised black poplar trees are most often found growing in Shropshire, Cheshire, Somerset and East Anglia, and is known in Northern England as the Manchester Poplar. The bark is dark brown but can be seen as black, and develops lots of fissures and burrs as the tree ages.
Populus nigra betulifolia is a large spreading deciduous broad-leaved tree with mature trees reaching heights of 30m and they can live for up to 200 years.
It is fast growing and will make a good screening or windbreak tree. The leaves are a lovely bright green turning yellow in autumn.
Planting Position
They will tolerate heavy, waterlogged ground such as flood plains and river beds, but also grow well in good deep loams. They like a sunny position and will cope well with pollution, so is sometimes planted in cities.
Try to avoid planting black poplar too close to buildings as the root system can be extensive.
Attributes
Black poplar is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are found on separate trees. Flowers are catkins (male catkins are red and female catkins are yellow-green), and are pollinated by the wind. Black poplar are particularly good for a variety of wildlife with the catkins providing early pollen and nectar for bees and other insects. It is also provides food for the caterpillars of many moths, including the hornet, wood leopard, poplar hawk and figure of eight. The seeds are eaten by birds.
Size
Size after 20 years : 20m x 15m
