Swamp Cottonwood

Populus heterophylla

Physical Characteristics

Populus heterophylla is a deciduous Tree growing to 25 m (82ft 0in) at a fast rate. It is in flower in March, and the seeds ripen from April to May. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Connecticut to Georgia, west to Louisiana, Ohio, Indiana and Arkansas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiinflammatory Febrifuge Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, the bark of most, if not all members of the genus contain salicin, a glycoside that probably decomposes into salicylic acid (aspirin) in the body[213, 238]. The bark is therefore anodyne, anti-inflammatory and febrifuge. It is used especially in treating rheumatism and fevers, and also to relieve the pain of menstrual cramps[238].

Known Hazards

None known