Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deltoides · Salicaceae (Willow and Poplar family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple leaf, deciduous
Shape
Deltoid (triangular) with an acute, tapering tip and a broad, flat to slightly cordate base
Margin
Coarsely crenate-serrate (rounded to pointed teeth along the edge)
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement on the stem with a long, flattened petiole that causes the leaf to tremble in the slightest breeze
Venation
Pinnate to somewhat palmately net-veined, with a prominent yellowish midrib and primary veins radiating from the base
Key Features
Triangular (deltoid) leaf shape, coarsely toothed margins, flattened petiole, and coarse, deeply furrowed bark on mature trunks
Description
The Eastern Cottonwood is a massive, fast-growing deciduous tree characterized by a broad, open crown, deeply furrowed grey bark, and large triangular leaves that flutter audibly in the wind. In spring it produces catkin flowers, followed by prolific cottony seeds in early summer.
Habitat
Found primarily along streams, rivers, floodplains, and damp lowlands; thrives in wet, alluvial soils and requires full sun exposure
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from southern Canada down through the Great Plains to the Gulf Coast