Populus Nigra Italica Lombardy Poplar

Populus Nigra Italica, Black Poplar Italica or Lombardy Poplar
Synonymous with Populus Nigra Pyramidalis, Black Poplar Italica is a large, deciduous tree, appreciated for its elegant form. With a narrow, columnar habit, this elegant cultivar is often used to form a tall screen.

The Lombardy Poplar is a male clone, meaning it will produce only decorative catkins and there will be no seeds that would litter your garden. Appearing on tree in the spring, the catkins are a lovely, deep red shade. The foliage unfolds soon after, and the medium green, ovate leaves retain their colour until they drop.

Populus Nigra Italica is a cultivar that naturally occurs on forest margins, fields, and boggy lowlands. As such, when grown in the garden, this ornamental tree prefers humus-rich, fertile soils that are moist but well-drained. It thrives in full sun, both in sheltered and exposed locations. When planting this cultivar, make sure to choose a spot that is not near any buildings on your property, as its vigorous and shallow root system can cause problems in the long run.

First discovered in the 18^th century, in northern Italy, Black Poplar Italica originated as a single specimen. Now widely distributed across Europe and beyond, this fastigiate tree is fully hardy in the United Kingdom. It will withstand even severe winter temperatures and it is not bothered by frosts. For its extraordinary qualities, Lombardy Poplar has been given the Award of Garden Merit by Royal Horticultural Society.

Height & Width:
Grand and impressive, the columnar habit of the Populus Nigra Italica only enhances its stature. This tree can grow to be up to 30 metres high, and 4 to 8 metres wide, which is why it is only recommended for large gardens.

Maintaining Black Poplar Italica’s attractive shape requires little effort. It will not need any trimming to retain its fastigiated form, but you will have to remove its suckers every autumn and winter. If the suckers are not routinely removed, Lombardy Poplar can become invasive.

The stately habit of Populus Nigra Italica makes it ideally suited for tall screens or hedges. Even though it is most often planted en masse, on larger estates where its imposing size adds architectural value, this cultivar can also be grown on its own. Isolated, this ornamental tree can be used to add drama to spacious lawns.

Make sure to take a look at our selection of tall and mature trees, as well as our collection of trees for screening.