Moana Nursery High Desert Plant Finder & Guide
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Robusta Poplar

Populus deltoides 'Robusta'

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Robusta Poplar (Populus deltoides 'Robusta') at Moana Nursery

Robusta Poplar in fall

Robusta Poplar in fall

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Robusta Poplar (Populus deltoides 'Robusta') at Moana Nursery

Robusta Poplar in fall

Robusta Poplar in fall

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Height:  60 feet

Spread:  40 feet

Sunlight:  full sun 

Hardiness Zone:  3

Other Names:  Robusta Cottonwood

Description:

A seedless variety of this massive upright-oval shade tree for larger properties and parks, tolerant of the worst growing conditions; has an aggressive root system, so don't plant near the house; makes an excellent windbreak or quick shade tree

Ornamental Features

Robusta Poplar has rich green deciduous foliage on a tree with an oval habit of growth. The large heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall.

Landscape Attributes

Robusta Poplar is a deciduous tree with a shapely oval form. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other landscape plants with finer foliage.

This tree will require occasional maintenance and upkeep, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Robusta Poplar is recommended for the following landscape applications;

  • Shade
  • Windbreaks and Shelterbelts

Planting & Growing

Robusta Poplar will grow to be about 60 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. It has a high canopy with a typical clearance of 7 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. As it matures, the lower branches of this tree can be strategically removed to create a high enough canopy to support unobstructed human traffic underneath. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It is an amazingly adaptable plant, tolerating both dry conditions and even some standing water. It may require supplemental watering during periods of drought or extended heat. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in both summer and winter to conserve soil moisture and protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selection of a native North American species.

 
 
Hardiness Zone Plant Height Minimum Sunlight
Characteristics
Shade  Windbreak 
Applications
Ornamental Features