White poplar

White Poplar (Populus alba), also known as silver poplar or abele, is a species of poplar, most commonly classified in the plant family Salicaceae. It is native to Morocco, Portugal and the Western Asia, but has also been widely cultivated and has naturalized in many other areas, including parts of Asia, Europe, and North America.

Description

The White Poplar is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree, growing to heights of up to 16–27 m, with a trunk up to 1 m in diameter. The bark is smooth and greenish-white to grey, with diamond-shaped dark marks. The shoots are covered with a whitish-grey down when young. The leaves are 4–15 cm long, with a silvery-white underside.

Cultivation and uses

White Poplar is a very hardy tree, capable of thriving in a variety of conditions, including poor soils and polluted atmospheres. It is often planted for its ornamental value, due to its distinctive silvery foliage. The wood is soft and has been used for many purposes, including making matches, packing cases, and paper pulp.

Ecology

White Poplar is a pioneer species, often found in disturbed areas and along forest edges. It is also a common tree in riparian zones and has a role in stabilizing river banks. The tree is known to be a host for the poplar rust fungus, Melampsora larici-populina.

Conservation

While not currently considered threatened, the White Poplar's natural range has been impacted by habitat loss due to human activities. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving its native habitats and promoting sustainable cultivation practices.

See also

• List of Populus species
• Populus sect. Aigeiros