Populus deltoides
Populus deltoides, commonly known as the Eastern Cottonwood, is a fast-growing tree native to North America. It typically reaches heights of 50 to 100 feet and has a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are triangular or deltoid-shaped, which gives the species its name, and they turn bright yellow in the fall.
This tree thrives in moist, well-drained soils, often found along riverbanks and floodplains. Populus deltoides is known for its cotton-like seeds that disperse in the wind, contributing to its rapid spread. It is also valued for its wood, which is used in various applications, including furniture and paper production.