Description
Cottonwood trees are one of the largest hardwoods of the river valleys in the west. Michigan’s largest cottonwood was in Eastport but was cut down some years ago because it was so big. The trunk of one is still standing. It is about 5 foot in diameter. Here are some of our other large trees.
Scientific Name: Populus deltoides
Zone: 2–9 Find Your Growing Zone
Mature Height: 70–100 ft (occasionally over 120 ft)
Mature Width: 50–75 ft
Fruit: Small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds attached to silky, cotton-like hairs that aid wind dispersal
Flowers: Male and female flowers on separate trees (dioecious), appearing as drooping catkins before leaf-out
Bloom Time: March to April
Growth Rate: Very fast — up to 5–8 ft per year under optimal conditions
Soil: Moist, well-drained, alluvial soils preferred; tolerates clay and sand
Drought Tolerance: Low to moderate — prefers consistent moisture
Flood Tolerance: High — thrives in periodically flooded bottomlands and riverbanks
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Fall Color: Yellow
Wildlife Value: Provides nesting habitat for large birds; twigs and bark browsed by deer, beavers, and rabbits; cottony seeds dispersed by wind provide cover for insects and nesting material for birds.
