Balsam Poplar
Description
A northern species with a range similar to that of Paper Birch, it extends across North America from the northern limit of tree growth, south to the Great Lakes region. In Indiana, it is naturally found only in the dune area of Lake Michigan. Leaves are whitish beneath and twigs provide food for wildlife. Balm of Gilead, used to relieve congestion, is produced by heating winter buds of a cultivar of this tree in oil.
Photos
Leaves - Spring
Habit
Leaves - Fall
Branch
Bark
Bark
Bud
Scientific Name: Populus balsamifera
Family: Willow
Seasonality: Deciduous
Wood Type: Hardwood
Shade Tolerance: Very Intolerant
Inventory Number: 2424