White Poplar Populus alba

White Poplar is an aggressive, fast growing, deciduous tree in the willow family that can reach a height of 75 feet (sometimes 100 feet) with a rounded crown. It is native to Europe and Central Asia, but has naturalized in North Carolina and other states, especially along roadsides and old lots. It has silvery-green foliage and, at one time, was widely planted as an ornamental in the United States. However, it has spread and naturalized in many areas, including the eastern states, and is prohibited in Connecticut and restricted in Wisconsin. Its self-seeding, its ability to spread by means of root suckers around the parent tree's base, and its rapid growth have enabled it to overwhelm some native species.

A White Poplar trunk often reaches a diameter of 2 to 3 feet, but the tree's spread is often greater because it divides into multiple branches at the base. The genus name comes from the Latin name and the species name means white.

White Poplar prefers average, consistently moist, well-drained soils in full sun. It tolerates some drought, a wide range of soils, maritime exposure, and many urban pollutants. It does not do well in shade.

The tree is not self fertile and requires male and female plants to produce seed. Planting trees of only one sex can be useful as a way to control spread. However, these trees also produce suckers that form colonies and would also need to be controlled. White Poplar sprouts frequently spring up from the roots, but seedlings are rare, reducing its threat as an invasive.

Avoid siting the tree near buildings, driveways, or walkways as the vigorous root systems may damage drains and foundations.

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

Susceptible to dieback, cankers, leaf spots, rusts and powdery mildew, borers, aphids, caterpillars and scale.