Populus heterophylla aka Swamp Poplar

Taxonomy

Populus heterophylla, also known as downy poplar, swamp poplar, and swamp cottonwood, is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Populus genus of the family Salicaceae. This species can thrive in sites with excess water where other native poplars cannot grow. It can reach a height of 50 to 100 ft and has a light to medium grey trunk and branches that are coarsely furrowed. The leaves are alternate deciduous, 4-6 inches long, and 3-4 inches across. The mature leaves are medium to dark green on the upper surface and pale green on the lower surface, with petioles that are 2-3 inches long and pale green or pale yellow in color. This species is pollinated by wind and flowers in April and fruits from May to June. On the IUCN Red List, this species is listed as "least concern". Although swamp cottonwood is a rare houseplant, it belongs to the Populus genus and is native to Canada and the Southeast United States. It requires regular watering to thrive and does best in long-lasting, direct light, less than 1 foot from a window. The plant prefers soil that is good at retaining moisture, and it should not need added fertilizers if you repot each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Swamp Poplar, Downy Poplar, Swamp Cottonwood

How to care for Swamp Poplar

Difficulty

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

Water

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

Soil

Swamp Poplar 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 Swamp Cottonwood, 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 Swamp Poplar will bloom beautifully in your home.

Lighting

Swamp Poplar 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 Swamp Cottonwood.

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 Swamp Poplar 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

Swamp Poplar’s native range is Eastern N. America - Connecticut to Georgia, west to Louisiana, Ohio, Indiana and Arkansas.


More info:
Wikipedia