Lakeshore Garden Centres Plant Finder

Other Names:  Robusta Cottonwood

Description:

A seedless variety of this massive upright-oval shade tree for larger properties and parks, tolerant of the worst growing conditions; has an aggressive root system, so don't plant near the house; makes an excellent windbreak or quick shade tree

Ornamental Features

Robusta Poplar has rich green deciduous foliage on a tree with an oval habit of growth. The large heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall.

Landscape Attributes

Robusta Poplar is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other landscape plants with finer foliage.

This tree will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Invasive
• Disease

Robusta Poplar is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Shade
• Windbreaks and Shelterbelts

Planting & Growing

Robusta Poplar will grow to be about 60 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. It has a high canopy with a typical clearance of 7 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. As it matures, the lower branches of this tree can be strategically removed to create a high enough canopy to support unobstructed human traffic underneath. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is an amazingly adaptable plant, tolerating both dry conditions and even some standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species.