Populus balsamifera aka Cottonwood

Taxonomy

Populus balsamifera, also known as balsam poplar, bam, bamtree, eastern balsam-poplar, or hackmatack, belongs to the balsam poplar species group in the poplar genus, Populus. The name Populus comes from the Latin for poplar, while the specific epithet balsamifera means "balsam-bearing." This tree species is the northernmost North American hardwood, with a transcontinental distribution on boreal and montane upland and flood plain sites, particularly thriving on flood plains. Although generally short-lived, some trees have been found to be as old as 200 years. Populus balsamifera is a hardy and fast-growing tree with light, soft wood that is commonly used for pulp and construction. Its resinous sap, or balsam, is extracted from its buds and is sometimes used as a disinfectant for beehives. The tree is also known for its strong, sweet fragrance, reminiscent of balsam fir. Bigtooth Aspen is another tree species that is easily distinguishable from Populus balsamifera by the large, curved teeth of its leaf edges, which are mentioned in both common and scientific names. This columnar tree can grow up to 50-75 ft. tall and has toothed leaves that are cottony-white on the lower surface, especially when young. Its bark is whitish and becomes furrowed at the base while turning darker gray with age. Silvery catkins appear before the leaves, and its deciduous foliage becomes golden-yellow in the fall. As a houseplant, Balsam Poplar is super rare and requires regular watering to thrive. It does best in long-lasting, direct light and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window. This plant prefers soil that is good at retaining moisture and does not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. Both the foliage, twig buds, and bark of Populus balsamifera and Bigtooth Aspen are consumed by wildlife.

Common names

Cottonwood, Balsam Poplar, Bamtree

How to care for Cottonwood

Difficulty

Even if you don't have a green thumb, you can successfully care for Cottonwood due to its easy-going nature.

Water

Cottonwood should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Cottonwood requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Bamtree, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Cottonwood will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

Cottonwood thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Bamtree.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

Repotting the Cottonwood is necessary either when it has doubled in size or once every year, whichever happens first. With fresh potting soil replenished annually, the plant will receive all the necessary nutrients, rendering the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that the source of a plant's energy is the sun, not fertilizer.

Region of origin

Cottonwood’s native range is Northern N. America - Newfoundland to Alaska, south to New England, Iowa and Colorado.


More info:
Wikipedia