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balsam poplar

Scientific Name: Populus balsamifera ssp. balsamifera

Family: Salicaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera)

The Balsam Poplar, scientifically known as Populus balsamifera, is a fragrant and fast-growing deciduous tree. It goes by several common names, including bam, bamtree, eastern balsam-poplar, hackmatack, and tacamahac.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text notes the presence of sticky, resinous buds, which could potentially be a concern if ingested or if they adhere to fur.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the presence of sticky, resinous buds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Populus balsamifera
  • Family: Salicaceae
  • Synonym: Eastern balsam poplar
  • Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies - Populus balsamifera ssp. balsamifera

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Balsam Poplar is the northernmost North American hardwood.
  • It grows transcontinentally on upland and flood plain sites.
  • It is found throughout the northern part of Minnesota along streams and edges of swamps.
  • It is a prominent deciduous species in Alberta’s Boreal mixed forest.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It is a slender, large tree growing up to 30 meters (98 feet) tall and 8 meters (26 feet) wide.
  • It is a fast-growing deciduous tree.
  • The crown is conical or ovate.
  • The bark is grey and wrinkled, becoming smooth and yellow-white near the top.
  • Leaves are alternate, simple, ovate, and finely serrated. They are shiny dark green, paler and often blotchy orange below.
  • Catkins appear before the leaves.

Ecological Role

  • Often a pioneer species for spruces.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Mentioned in a study examining the germination and growth of Alnus crispa var. mollis (green alder) in relation to Populus balsamifera leaf litter and bud extracts.

Quirky Facts

  • The sticky resin of poplar buds contains salicin, which the body converts to aspirin.
  • In early Roman days, this tree was used to ornament public spaces.
  • Native North Americans traditionally used the bark to treat deep wounds.

Further Information

  • Listen to the Latin symbol: POBAB2.
  • Lynden Gerdes @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
  • Find help &amp information on Populus trichocarpa western balsam poplar from the RHS.