Poplars are generally more commonly known 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.
The black poplar is a popular poplar species
The many qualities of poplar
When walking in the woods and fields, they delight and relax with their mighty crowns gently swaying in the wind. Poplars are part of the landscape of the entire northern hemisphere and have a very special charm with their airy, elastic appearance.
Poplars are also very popular as avenue edging. Due to its very rapid growth, streets can be shaded effectively and naturally.
In addition, they are an effective bank reinforcement due to their horizontally strong root system.
The poplar qualities at a glance:
- Graceful, airy, swinging appearance
- Suitable for avenues
- Effective bank reinforcement
Poplars in the garden
In the garden, too, the benefits of poplars are not limited to their graceful, light ornamental value. Especially when planted in rows, slender poplars can form a magnificent and shady hedge or stand as a trellis at private driveways. As a moisture-loving willow plant with strong roots, locations on the edges of ponds are highly recommended. Which Populus species are to be used for which garden purposes is outlined below.
black poplar
Populus nigra has a slightly gloomy character due to its gnarled growth and the black-brown, heavily grooved bark. It is best suited for solitary planting and, thanks to its strong horizontal root system, as a bank reinforcement. Like most poplar species, it is extremely frost-resistant and can withstand temperatures as low as -29°C.
The Populus nigra 'italica' variety, the columnar poplar, is ideal for row plantings on the property line.
balsam poplar
The species Populus balsamifera is even more cold-resistant and has an even darker bark than the black poplar. Its reddish-yellow catkins exude a distinctive scent and are a real bee magnet. However, the environment must be taken into account with the balsam poplar, as it can reach a height of 40 meters.
aspen
The aspen, also known as the aspen, is well known to many. The long-stemmed, triangular leaves, which move at the slightest breeze, have given it its name and are the basis of the saying "tremble like an aspen leaf". With its wide, sprawling growth and the light, swinging crown, it looks very graceful and keeps out noise and wind well. Due to its width, however, it requires a lot of space, although it only reaches a moderate 15 to 20 meters in height.