Poplars are generally found in the wild, on avenues or on plantations. But poplars can also cut a very good figure in larger gardens. Here is a brief overview of the most interesting species of the Populus genus.
Which poplar species are suitable for the garden?
Suitable poplar species for the garden include the black poplar (Populus nigra), the balsam poplar (Populus balsamifera) and the quaking aspen (Populus tremula). These species are frost-resistant, provide shade, serve as bank reinforcement and attract bees.
The many qualities of poplar
When walking in the forest and fields, they delight and relax with their mighty crowns swaying gently in the wind. Poplars are part of the landscape of the entire northern hemisphere and have a very special appeal due to their airy, elastic appearance.
Poplars are also very popular as an avenue border. Due to their very rapid growth, streets can be effectively naturally shaded.
In addition, their strong horizontal root system makes them an effective bank reinforcement.
The poplar qualities at a glance:
- Graceful, airy, swinging appearance
- Avenue plantable
- Effective bank reinforcement
Poplar trees in the garden
The benefits of poplars in the garden are not limited to their graceful, light decorative value. Especially when planted in rows, narrow-growing poplars can form a magnificent, shady hedge or stand on a trellis along private driveways. As a moisture-loving and strong-rooted willow plant, locations on the edges of ponds are highly recommended. Which Populus species can be used for which garden purposes will be outlined below.
Black Poplar
Populus nigra has a slightly dark character due to its gnarled growth and the black-brown, heavily furrowed bark. It is best suited for solitary planting and as a bank reinforcement thanks to its strong horizontal root system. Like most poplar species, it is extremely frost-resistant and can survive temperatures down to -29°C.
The variety Populus nigra 'italica', the columnar poplar, is ideal for row planting at the property boundary.
Balsam Poplar
The species Populus balsamifera is even more cold-resistant and has an even darker bark than the black poplar. Its reddish-yellow catkin flowers exude a distinctive scent and are a real bee magnet. However, the surroundings of the balsam poplar must be carefully considered, as it can grow up to 40 meters high.
Aspen
The quaking aspen, also known as aspen, is well known to many. The long-stemmed, triangular leaves, which move with the slightest breeze, gave it its name and are the basis for the expression “trembling like a leaf”. With its wide, sprawling growth and light, swinging crown, it appears very graceful and blocks out noise and wind well. Due to its width, it requires a lot of space, although it only reaches a moderate height of 15 to 20 meters.
