Populus x acuminata Play pronunciation

Lanceleaf Cottonwood is a naturally occurring hybrid tree in the willow (Salicaceae) family native to the floodplains and streams in the Rocky Mountain region growing at elevations of between 4,500-8,500 feet.  It is a naturally occurring cross between the Eastern Cottonwood Populus deltoides and the Narrowleaf Cottonwood Populous angustifolia.   It is commonly planted as a shade tree in the four corners region of the United States.  As this tree typically grows in riparian areas it requires frequent supplemental water in a landscape.  Frequent pruning to remove weak branches, cleaning up seeds and fallen leaves add to the maintenance tasks for this tree.  It also sends out shallow roots with suckers that can damage sidewalks or driveways. 

Its seeds are white and fluffy and dispersed in the wind.  They resemble cotton, hence the common name Cottonwood. "Acuminata" is Latin for pointed and refers to the leaf shape and and "Populous" means people.

In its native habitat is provides many wildlife benefits but being native to the west, this tree will not do well in the hot humid southeastern USA. See native alternatives to the left.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Borers, aphids, scales, and thrips are insect problems. Cytospora canker, slime flux, anthracnose, crown rot, and sooty mold are disease problems.  It has shallow roots, suckers easily, and has prolific fluffy seeds that spread far and wide making it weedy.  It is also susceptible to limb breakage.