Eastern Cottonwood
Populus deltoides
One of the fastest-growing North American trees, a massive riparian pioneer whose female trees release abundant cottony seed in early summer. The soft, brittle wood and rapid growth make it prone to limb drop and trunk failure as it ages. Plant cottonless male cultivars to avoid the seed nuisance.
Field reference
Family
Salicaceae
Growth rate
Fast
Mature size
70–100 ft tall, 50–70 ft spread
Hardiness zone
2–9
Soil preference
Moist to wet bottomland and riparian soils; flood tolerant
Sun
Full sun
Pruning window
Late winter (dormant); expect heavy regrowth
Wood properties
Light, soft, weak, woolly-grained wood (~0.40 SG) that is hard to split and low value. Brittle limbs and frequent storm failure — treat large cottonwoods as high-risk.
Native range
Central and eastern North America along rivers, streams, and floodplains
Green weight
49 lb/ft³
Pests & diseases to watch
Common questions
Why is my yard covered in white fluff in June?
Female cottonwoods release cottony seed fibers in early summer. It is harmless but messy; if you are planting new trees, choose a cottonless male selection.
Are big cottonwoods dangerous?
They can be — fast growth produces weak, brittle wood prone to sudden limb drop, especially when over-mature or decayed. Mature cottonwoods near targets deserve regular risk assessment.
Related species in Salicaceae
Tree Nerd Academy
Ready to sit the ISA Certified Arborist exam?
Video curriculum, flashcards, and exam-sim built by working arborists.