narrowleaf cottonwood (Populus angustifolia)

Second place (tied) narrowleaf cottonwood in Lake City.

Species info:

Leaves: Alternate, simple, ovate-lanceolate, 2–3 inches long and ½–1 inch wide with fine serrations along the margins. Resembles willow leaves due to narrow shape.

Leaflets: N/A (simple leaves).

Leaf Surface: Glossy green above and lighter beneath; turn brilliant yellow in fall. Petioles are round (not flattened laterally), which distinguishes this species from other cottonwoods.

Bark: Smooth and light yellow-green on young trees, becoming grayish and shallowly furrowed with age.

Flowers: Short-stalked catkins appearing in early spring before leaves; not showy.

Botanical: Populus angustifolia

Family: Salicaceae

Mature Height: 50–75 feet

Canopy Spread: 30–50 feet

Foliage Type: Deciduous

Tree Shape: Upright to pyramidal in youth; broadens slightly with maturity

Growth Rate: Medium to fast; may reach 50 feet in 20 years under favorable conditions

Fall Color: Bright yellow

Water Use: High; prefers moist sites

Hardiness: Zones 3–9

Soil Preference: Adaptable but prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates higher elevations and cold mountain valleys

Wildlife Value: Provides important riparian habitat and nesting sites; supports birds and pollinators associated with riparian ecosystems

Pests/Pathogens: Susceptible to Cytospora canker and bacterial wetwood, especially in stressed trees

Planting Recommendations: This Colorado-native is recommended for use in native areas only

Information Sources:

• Michael Dirr, Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (University of Georgia, 1990)

• Michael Kuhns, Trees of Utah and the Intermountain West (Utah State University Press, 1998)