Populus nigra var. italica

Planted: 1919

This tree is on the south side of the Grass Path.

Distribution:	A male cultivar of the Black Poplar Populus nigra which is native to northern Italy. Female form is rarely seen as male trees can be propagated from cuttings.
Planting Date:	Purchased in 1919 from W Clibran and Sons, Oldfield Nursery, Altringham, Cheshire as Populus nigra ‘Gigantea’.
Growth Habit:	Well known and beautiful of all fasigiate trees, differs from the type with its slender tapering form and quite erect branches.
Bark:	Dark brown appearing black, rugged with numerous fissures and burrs.
Leaf:	Variable – diamond, triangular or ovate. Smooth, both surfaces are green.
Flowers:	Rarely seen as most trees are male. For this female tree, the flowers start off green, rather than red.
Fruit:	Tiny seeds, female catkins develop into fluffy cotton-like bolls, which fall in late summer.
Toxicity:	Usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock.
Potential tree size:	30 to 38m
Uses: Plant Hunter: Introduction Date:	Ornamental The male form is prefered as it is more slender and does not produce white fluff litter. Brought to England by Lord Rochford from Turin. 1758