Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deltoides · Salicaceae (Willow and Poplar family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Deltoid or broadly triangular with an acuminate (tapering) apex and a truncate to slightly cordate base
Margin
Serrate or crenate-serrate with rounded to somewhat pointed teeth along the edges
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig, featuring a noticeably flattened petiole
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent midrib and main veins radiating slightly from the base in a sub-palmate fashion
Key Features
Triangular (deltoid) leaf shape, coarsely toothed margins, flattened petiole that allows leaves to tremble in the wind, and rough, deeply furrowed bark on mature trees
Description
The Eastern Cottonwood is a massive, fast-growing deciduous tree known for its open, sprawling crown and deeply furrowed, grayish-white bark. It features distinctive triangular leaves that flutter effortlessly in the slightest breeze due to their flattened stems. In spring, it produces catkin flowers, followed by cottony seeds that disperse widely in early summer.
Habitat
Typically found along streams, rivers, floodplains, and moist bottomlands, preferring full sun and damp, rich soils
Native Range
Native to eastern, central, and southern North America, ranging from southern Canada down to the Gulf of Mexico, and widely planted across other temperate regions