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Populus nigra 'Italica'
Lombardy poplar
Cultivar originating from the Lombardy region of northern Italy; the species {P. nigra} (black poplar) is native to Europe, western Asia, and North AfricaLearn more
Overview
Populus nigra 'Italica' is Lombardy poplar (Italian poplar), a narrowly columnar (fastigiate) deciduous tree growing 40-60 feet (12-18 m) tall and only 10-15 feet (3-4.5 m) wide — all branches grow sharply upward against the trunk. Medium green broadly triangular (deltoid) leaves 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) on flattened petioles that cause the leaves to flutter in the slightest breeze. Turns yellow in fall — drops early. Reddish male catkins in March-April; all cultivated 'Italica' are male clones (no cottony seed). In Salicaceae. The species P. nigra (black poplar) is native to Europe; this cultivar originated in the Lombardy region of Italy. Cytospora canker (Cytospora chrysosperma) kills branches progressively, typically beginning at age 15-20 years, and usually kills the entire tree within 5-10 years of onset. This canker susceptibility and resulting short effective lifespan (15-25 years) is the primary limitation. The aggressive root system invades sewer lines, septic systems, and foundations — do not plant within 50 feet (15 m) of underground utilities. Weak-wooded — branch and trunk failures in storms. Fast-growing but short-lived. Tolerates a wide range of soils and pH (5.0-8.0). Non-toxic. Zones 3-9. Full sun. Growth rate is very fast — 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m) per year when young.
Native Range
The species P. nigra is native to Europe, western Asia, and North Africa. This cultivar originated in the Lombardy region of northern Italy.Suggested Uses
Historically planted as a windbreak row, property screen, or landscape accent in rows spaced 10-15 feet (3-4.5 m). The narrow columnar form is 10-15 feet (3-4.5 m) wide. Canker susceptibility limits effective lifespan to 15-25 years. Aggressive roots — 50+ feet (15+ m) from utilities. Consider Quercus robur 'Fastigiata' or Carpinus betulus 'Fastigiata' as longer-lived narrow alternatives. Non-toxic. Zones 3-9.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height40' - 60'
Width/Spread10' - 15'
Reaches mature size in approximately 12 years
Bloom Information
Early spring (March-April). Reddish male catkins 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) before leaves emerge. All 'Italica' are male clones — no cottony seed. Wind-pollinated. 1 week.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Reddish male catkins 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) before leaves in March-April; inconspicuous; all cultivated 'Italica' are male clones — no cottony seedFoliage Description
Medium green, broadly triangular (deltoid), 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) wide, with finely serrated margins on flattened petioles; emerging with a bronze tint in spring; turns yellow in fall — drops earlyGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Full sun (6+ hours). Any soil pH 5.0-8.0 — tolerates clay, silt, and alkaline conditions. Drought-tolerant once established. Cytospora canker kills branches progressively beginning at age 15-20 years. Aggressive roots invade utilities — plant 50+ feet (15+ m) from sewer lines, septic, and foundations. Weak-wooded. Prune in winter (January-February). High maintenance. Non-toxic. Zones 3-9.Pruning
Prune in winter (January-February). Remove dead and canker-infected branches — cut 12 inches (30 cm) below visible infection and disinfect tools between cuts. The strict columnar habit is natural — do not attempt to widen. Remove suckers from the base and roots.Pruning Schedule
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winter