black poplar

plant

Also known as: Populus nigra

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

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The black poplar, scientifically known as Populus nigra, is a European poplar species. It is a rapid-growing tree, often used in ornamental plantings, particularly in southern Europe. This species is also related to the black cottonwood found in North America.12

The term "black poplar" can also refer to other poplar varieties, including swamp cottonwood and balsam poplar. Poplars, in general, belong to the genus Populus and are known for their fast growth and relatively short lifespan. Their wood is soft and commonly used for paper, cardboard, and crates. Poplars are dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate trees, and they reproduce via seeds dispersed by wind-borne, cottony tufts.12

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poplar
Common species
The black poplar, or black cottonwood (P. nigra), has oval fine-toothed leaves, is long-trunked, and grows to a height of 35 metres (115 feet). Columnar black poplars are widely used in ornamental landscape plantings, particularly among the villas of Italy and elsewhere in southern Europe. White…
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The black poplar, or black cottonwood (P. nigra), has oval fine-toothed leaves, is long-trunked, and grows to a height of 35 metres (115 feet). Columnar black poplars are widely used in ornamental landscape plantings, particularly among the villas of Italy and elsewhere in southern Europe. White…
Read More