Key Facts:
Scientific Name: Populus balsamifera
Common Name: Balsam Poplar, Balm of Gilead, Tacamahac
Family: Salicaceae
Height: 50-80 feet at maturity
Spread: 30-50 feet
Leaf Shape: Ovate to lance-shaped with finely serrated edges
Bark Color: Gray to brown, smooth when young, becoming deeply furrowed with age
Fall Foliage Color: Yellow
Growth Habit: Upright, pyramidal to rounded crown
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil Preference: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates wet conditions and clay soils
Water Needs: Requires ample moisture, especially in lowland and riparian areas
Cold Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 2-7
Wildlife Value: Provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects
Pest and Disease Resistance: Can be susceptible to leaf rust, cankers, and aphids
Notable Features:
Fragrant Buds: The sticky, resinous buds of the Balsam Poplar exude a strong, pleasant fragrance and have been used in traditional medicine to treat wounds and respiratory conditions.
Fast Growth: The Balsam Poplar is a rapidly growing tree, making it suitable for reforestation projects, erosion control, and as a windbreak in colder climates.
Tolerates Extreme Cold: This tree is highly adaptable to cold, making it one of the few trees that can thrive in the northernmost parts of North America.
Why You Will Love Balsam Poplar:
Balsam Poplar is a remarkable tree for cold climates and wet areas, bringing a combination of fast growth, wildlife support, and seasonal interest. Its fragrant buds and bright yellow fall color make it a striking addition to riparian and woodland landscapes.
Balsam Poplar
Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera), also known as Balm of Gilead or Tacamahac, is a large deciduous tree native to North America, particularly in the boreal and riparian zones. It is one of the most northern-ranging trees in North America, known for its fragrant, resinous buds, which have historically been used for medicinal purposes. The Balsam Poplar is prized for its fast growth, tolerance to cold, and ability to thrive in moist soils, particularly in river valleys and wetlands.
